Personal Injury Law

Toyota - Recall Intensifies, Answers Still Sought

By Jamie G. Goldstein

Toyota's recall related to the acceleration of its vehicles has been brewing for some time now and seems to only be getting worse as the days, weeks and months go along. Toyota initially announced a recall in September of 2009 stating that there was a fear that accelerators could become trapped by floor mats causing unwanted acceleration and the inability to stop the vehicle. The total vehicles believed to be initially affected was approximately 4 million. Toyota had hoped to start fixing those vehicles by the beginning of 2010, but it seems now that more problems and the seriousness of the defect, whatever it may be, is still coming to light.

On January 21, 2010, Toyota announced it was recalling an additional 2 million plus vehicles for what it termed a "sticking accelerator". Less than 1 week later on January 26, 2010, Toyota announced it was halting the production and sales of 8 of its vehicles. These vehicles include the Rav 4 2009-2010, Matrix 2009-2010, Corolla 2009-2010, Tundra 2007-2010, Avalon 2005-2010, Camry 2007-2010, Highlander 2010 and the Sequoia 2008-2010.

On January 28, 2010, Toyota once again expanded its recall to include vehicles in Europe and China. It is believed there are another 2 million vehicles affected overseas by this most recent recall.

It seems that this recall is quickly escalating and putting into question the once reliable Toyota brand. A sticking accelerator is a serious problem and is potentially putting millions and millions of people at risk, including those driving Toyota vehicles and those sharing the road with these defective models. If Toyota wants to save its name, it better start answering questions quicker and assisting people faster to ensure the vehicles on the road are safe. To date, many are unable to repair their vehicles and are forced to drive vehicles that may result in injuries to themselves and others. Toyota has a responsibility to those that have been injured, and it is likely that in the weeks and months to come, the public will begin to see the number of injuries that have resulted due to the defects.

If you or someone you know has been injured as a result of a defective Toyota vehicle, contact an attorney. You may be entitled to recover money damages from Toyota for its defective vehicles causing your injuries.

Full post as published by Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer on January 29, 2010 (boomark / email).