Toyota Recall Expanded; Prius and Lexus Hybrids Affected

By Brian Cole

Published on February 09, 2010

Toyota has recalled an additional 437,000 vehicles worldwide due to potentially faulty anti-lock braking systems and power steering problems. The 2010 Prius and Lexus hybrids are among the cars affected by the most recent Toyota recall.

Since October, a total of 8.4 million vehicles have been recalled due to floor mats, which were said to trap the gas pedal; accelerator problems, which may cause the gas pedal to stick; anti-lock braking glitches, a software problem that could cause the brakes to briefly malfunction; and the power steering hose, which may affect brake tubes.

However, some consumers and safety groups believe the Toyota vehicles' electronic throttle control systems are faulty. There was a significant increase in the number of complaints about uncontrolled acceleration in Toyota cars from model years 2002 to 2007. During this time, the car company increased its use of electronic throttle control systems.

NHTSA Notified of Dangers

Many consumers now question whether the automaker and the National Transportation Safety Administration responded quickly enough to protect the public. In addition to thousands of complaints filed by Toyota drivers, State Farm Insurance representatives say that in 2007 the company informed the NHTSA of a possible tendency for Toyota and Lexus models to accelerate suddenly.

If you or someone you know has been injured by acceleration problems associated with a Toyota or Lexus vehicle, it is important to contact a product liability/personal injury attorney right away. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills or loss of income.

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