Toyota Issues a 2nd Recall
The New York Times reports from Detroit, “Toyota issued its second large recall in two months on Thursday to fix a problem with accelerator pedals that can get stuck, causing vehicles to speed up unintentionally” (Nick Bunkley, 1/22). The recall covers over 2 million cars and trucks between model years 2005 and 2010, and is separate from the 4.2 million vehicle recall in November. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website has more detailed information regarding which cars are affected.
The November recall targeted a floor mat design flaw that could potentially cause the gas petal to become trapped, which was the suspected culprit in a fatal accident this summer in California. However, even after removing and replacing floor mats, reports of jammed petals continued to plague the automaker.
Two recent accidents in Texas and New Jersey have prompted the NHTSA to consider launching an investigation. Until Thursday, the automaker denied any mechanical or electronic problems with the gas pedal, but is now saying that in “rare instances” there may be a mechanical mechanism malfunction leading to gas pedals to get stuck accelerating.
Although Toyota seems to be making thorough and appropriate recalls, all consumers must be sure to have their recalled vehicles fixed as soon as possible. The issue plaguing Toyota vehicles is one that is more serious than many other recalls. Three major accidents in six months have occurred as a result. Therefore, as a personal injury attorney, I encourage all people to take whatever steps necessary to avoid possible fatal car accidents.
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