Toyota Recalls 2.17 Million Vehicles for Possible Sudden Acceleration Issues

Toyota has recalled 2.17 million U.S. vehicles in response to an in-depth investigation conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and NASA that looked into possible contributing factors to reports of sudden acceleration issues in Toyota vehicles manufactured since 2004. The report did not find an electronic cause, but did ascertain that mechanical problems, like pedal interference, could contribute to sudden acceleration. The affected models include new vehicles added to a Toyota recall announced in September 2009. All of the affected models were manufactured from 2004-2011 and include:

• Toyota 4Runner
• Toyota Rav4
• Toyota Highlander
• Lexus LX
• Lexus RX
• Lexus GS

Further information about the recall can be found at the Toyota Recall website or the Lexus Recall website.

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This recall has apparently been a long time coming, especially after a number of news reports have been written that have suspected such an acceleration issue of being a possible contributing factor to injury accidents. When a product manufacturer releases an unsafe product to the general public, they may be held liable if their product leads to an injury accident or a fatal accident. While it's fortunate that this recall is being conducted and that steps are being taken to ensure that possible future accidents don't have to occur due to this apparent problem, such a recall does little to help those that may have already suffered due to this issue. Additionally, since a number of auto manufacturers have recalled various models of their cars over the last few months, it's recommended that you check your car manufacturer's website, or contact your dealership, in order to see if any recalls might be affecting your car.

- Texas Product Liability Attorney Michael Grossman