Steering Column Repair: 1998 Volvo V70 shift lock, 1998 volvo v70, steering column lock

Question
QUESTION: this is somewhat integral to the steering column/ignition lock.  i want to know what the philosophy behind the shift lock device implementation was.  in other words why was it instituted--the shift lock that prevents removing the key unless in 'park'.  someone thought he or she had a bright idea--what was it?

ANSWER: Hi Carl:
In writing this, I may insult some engineers, but here goes...
As soon as there is a lawsuit, change is inevitable.  When Audi had a few customers hit the gas instead of the brake when they shifted out of Park, every car company ran to installing a brake-lock shift release systems.
And so it was with the key locking mechanism.  This was installed because someone shut the key off while driving and in doing so, locked the steering column, preventing the driver from turning it as they were coasting to a stop.  This in turn caused an accident so now every car company has a mechanism in the steering column and ignition lock system in place to prevent the locking of the column unless the vehicle is in Park.
All of these are designed to protect you from you.  Don't you know it's in your best interest.  You need protection or you will hurt yourself.  Let the lawyers and engineers fix everything so you are safe!!  I'm being facetious.  
It's these mechanisms, their failure and the knowledge of how to repair them that has kept me in business and cost consumers ever increasing expenses when buying newer and newer cars.
I'm sure there are lots more to come...just wait
Thanks for asking
Doug

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: i'm sorry douglas, i am not referring to the steering column lock, i am referring to the shift lock that prevents one from removing the key unless the shift lever is in PARK.  it doesnt make any sense and i need to know WHY such a thing was implemented.  thanks, carl

Answer
Carl:
I explained that in the second part of my answer, but here it is again:

This system was installed because someone shut the key off while driving and in doing so, locked the steering column, preventing the driver from turning it as they were coasting to a stop.  This in turn caused an accident so now every car company has a mechanism in the steering column and ignition lock system in place to prevent the locking of the column unless the vehicle is in Park.