Parker Waichman LLP

Toyota Faces Maximum Fine Over Gas Pedal Problems

The federal government is going after Toyota for the way it handled defective gas pedals. According to the Associated Press, the Department of Transportation will seek $16.375 million -the maximum penalty allowed by law – from Toyota for failing to promptly notify the government about the pedals. Since last fall, Toyota has recalled more than […]

The federal government is going after Toyota for the way it handled defective gas pedals. According to the Associated Press, the Department of Transportation will seek $16.375 million -the maximum penalty allowed by law – from Toyota for failing to promptly notify the government about the pedals.

Since last fall, Toyota has recalled more than 8 million vehicles worldwide for problems involving sudden acceleration. Toyota and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have blamed the speed control issues on defective floor mats and faulty gas pedals. In the U.S., five deaths have occurred in auto accidents involving the unintended acceleration of a Toyota or Lexus vehicle. Last August, a California Highway Patrol trooper and three members of his family were killed in such a crash in San Diego County, just south of Orange. At least 47 other fatalities over the past decade alleged to be the result of Toyota unintended acceleration crashes are currently being investigated by the NHTSA.

According to the Associated Press, Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood says evidence shows that Toyota knew of the problem with sticking gas pedals in late September but did not issue a recall until late January. Auto manufacturers are legally obligated to notify NHTSA within five business days if they determine that a safety defect exists.

According to a Department of Transportation press release, the NHTSA learned through documents obtained from Toyota that the company knew of the sticky pedal defect since at least September 29, 2009. That day, Toyota issued repair procedures to their distributors in 31 European countries and Canada to address complaints of sticky accelerator pedals, sudden increases in engine RPM, and sudden vehicle acceleration. The documents also show that Toyota was aware that consumers in the U.S. were experiencing the same problems, the statement said.

“We now have proof that Toyota failed to live up to its legal obligations,” LaHood said. “Worse yet, they knowingly hid a dangerous defect for months from U.S. officials and did not take action to protect millions of drivers and their families. For those reasons, we are seeking the maximum penalty possible under current laws.”

The fine would be the largest civil penalty ever issued to an automaker by the government, the Associated Press said.

What Our Clients Say About Us
We have worked with thousands of clients and we appreciate them and their positive reviews. Here are just a few recent client reviews...
5 Star Reviews 150
Positive: Professionalism Christina (Tina) Paralegal is a true professional and has excellent customer service skills. Tina is friendly and helpful with my case. Tina also is respectful and compassionate toward me. I have refer others to Parker Waichman LLP. Thank you
Jacqueline D Bryce
2 years ago
5 Star Reviews 150
Benita Rollis, paralegal, was very professional, yet compassionate. She made an emotional process bearable. Benita represented the firm very well. Michelle Josama picked up where Benita left off for the final leg of the process and is displaying the same professionalism as Benita. Thank you Parker Waichman for such a good experience during such an emotional journey.
Olivia Griffin
3 years ago
5 Star Reviews 150
Could not of asked for a better experience. Never had one issue, Lynda Luckman was the nicest and easiest person to deal with while keeping me updated throughout the whole procedure for my case.
Gregory Levine
5 years ago

Why Choose Us to Help You?

We Take Care of Everything
Your situation is stressful enough: Let us take on the deadlines, paperwork, investigation, and litigation. We'll handle every detail so you don't have to worry.
No Recovery = No Legal Fees
We work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning that we only get paid from a portion of your settlement or jury award. If you don't get compensation, you owe us nothing.
Decades of Experience
Your situation is stressful enough: Let us take on the deadlines, paperwork, investigation, and litigation. We'll handle every detail so you don't have to worry.
Respected by Our Peers
Judges, insurance adjusters, and fellow attorneys all speak highly of our skills, and we've earned numerous accolades, including a flawless rating from AVVO.
We Have Many Locations To Serve You
We have the experience and the skilled litigators to win your case. Contact us and speak with a real attorney who can help you.
Long Island – Nassau
Parker Waichman LLP
6 Harbor Park Drive
Port Washington, NY 11050
Long Island – Suffolk
Parker Waichman LLP
201 Old Country Road – Suite 145
Melville, NY 11747
New York
Parker Waichman LLP
59 Maiden Lane, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10038
Queens
Parker Waichman LLP
118-35 Queens Boulevard, Suite 400
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Brooklyn
Parker Waichman LLP
300 Cadman Plaza West
One Pierrepont Plaza, 12th Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11201
New Jersey
Parker Waichman LLP
80 Main Street, Suite 265
West Orange, NJ 07052
Florida
Parker Waichman LLP
27299 Riverview Center Boulevard
Suite 108
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Nationwide Service
Parker Waichman LLP
59 Maiden Lane, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10038