Columbus, Ohio Attorney Blog - Robert W. Kerpsack Co., L.P.A.

In addition to the ongoing recall of 4.2 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles for floor mat entrapment, Toyota announced a recall of 2.3 million more vehicles for accelerator pedal sticking. The recall affects only Toyota vehicles, not Lexus or Scion vehicles. Approximately 1.7 million vehicles are subject to both recalls. These potentially defective vehicles have already caused dozens of injuries and deaths.

According to a spokesman for Toyota, "Our investigation indicates that there is a possibility that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms may, in rare instances, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position."

This recall is, like the previous floor mat recall, intended to address the unexplained acceleration events that have killed or injured dozens of people. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received over 100 reports of such events, not all of which resulted in accidents. When Toyota announced the floor mat recall, the NHTSA stressed that it was an interim measure and not a fix of the underlying defect in the vehicles.

The possibility of a mechanical sticking of the pedal is an alternate explanation to what some have said, that an electronic throttle control mechanism, which is subject to influence by transient electromagnetic fields, was to blame. Whatever the actual explanation, for now this recall is the only action Toyota is taking to remedy the complaints.Vehicles subject to the current recall include the following models:

• Avalon (2005-2010)
• Camry (2007-2010)
• Corolla (2009-2010)
• Highlander (2010)
• Matrix (2009-2010)
• RAV4 (2009-2010)
• Sequoia (2008-2010)
• Tundra (2007-2010)

Toyota says that in the event of a stuck accelerator pedal, you should apply firm and steady pressure to the brake pedal, drive to the nearest safe location, and shut off the engine.

Many charge that Toyota has been covering up the problem of unexplained accelerations for over five years. It may be that this recall will fix the problem, or it could be that it is another cover for the real problem. Defective vehicle lawsuits are being pursued and may be the only way to force Toyota to reveal everything it knows about the problem.

If you or a loved one have been injured by a mysterious acceleration in a Toyota vehicle, please contact Robert W. Kerpsack, CO, LPA to help us get to the bottom of this issue and seek compensation for your injury.