Growing Anger, Frustration, and Confusion among Toyota Drivers
As Toyota executives have been less than forthcoming about the issues surrounding the recalls, their consumers are becoming increasingly more agitated as many have invested in new, nice, and what they thought were safe cars, only to be fearful of driving them to the point that they are beginning to turn to rental cars. Since Tuesday, “when the Japanese automaker said it would stop making and selling some of its top-selling models, the company has had few answers for dealers and drivers - most notably when Toyota owners could get their cars fixed and hit the road without worrying” (AP for FindLaw, McClam and Fredrix, 1/29).
"I'm stuck with this car," said Tony Raasch of Hales Corners, Wisconsin, who collided with another driver in his 2010 Corolla two weeks ago when the car suddenly accelerated. "I really don't know what to do. I just feel - I guess - ripped off is the best way to put it."
Almost certainly multiplying consumer frustrations, “Toyota is sending new gas pedal systems to its factories, not to dealerships that want the parts to take care of customers' cars.” On Friday, the company said that details regarding the solutions to the acceleration problem will be made available next week and should take about a month to implement. Of course, drivers do not have a month to be without their Toyota for daily uses.
However, as a Chicago car and truck accident attorney, I urge drivers to take this recall seriously. No matter how frustrating and inconvenient it may be, it is imperative to take the necessary precautions to avoid unnecessary injuries.