Personal Injury Law

Toyota Class Action Lawsuits Make History

By LaBovick Law

Today a panel of seven federal judges in San Diego must consider a locale for the cases filed against Toyota nationwide, and  whether to consolidate the numerous proposed class-action lawsuits before the chosen court. The panel's decision, expected within several weeks, would likely determine the eventual trial or settlement of the cases.

Some of the suits claim that Toyota was aware of the sudden acceleration problem but failed to inform consumers or the government. Others claim that Toyota is ignoring the real source of the problems: flawed electronics. According to National Public Radio (NPR), the suits each claim to be filed on behalf of some 6 million drivers. NPR also indicated that numerous other suits have been filed against Toyota, including wrongful death, personal injury, and claims of loss by investors due to decreases in stock value.

If the cases are consolidated and settled, Toyota could face damages up to $3 billion. According to Tim Howard, Northeastern University law professor,

"the class-action lawsuits filed against Toyota ranks as the largest automobile class action in the history of American law and the world.'

The New York Times reports that the judge of the chosen locale will make several important decisions, including 'whether all Toyota owners affected by the recalls should be treated as a single class that could be paid for the vehicles' lost value.'

Toyota is expected to request a dismissal of any single case.

Click on the following links to read more on the Toyota Lawsuit news.

US Panel to Consider Locale of Toyota Lawsuits - The New York Times
Lawyers Play Speed-Date in Toyota Suit Tussle - The Wall Street Journal
Lawyers Jostle To Lead Charge Against Toyota - National Public Radio

  

Full post as published by LaBovick Injury Law Blog on March 25, 2010 (boomark / email).