NHTSA's Expanded Probe into Toyota

With the growing public concern over the Toyota accelerator pedal recalls, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has demanded files from Toyota regarding the timeliness of their recent recalls. Manufacturers are required to notify NHTSA within five days of determining that a safety defect exists and to promptly conduct a recall. The probe seeks to determine how Toyota became aware of the defects, such as through consumer complaints or factory testing. Investigators also wish to determine whether the defects were discovered pre-production or post-production.

NHTSA's press release claims that Toyota may be liable for $16 million in civil penalties. U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood characterized recalls such as these as "serious matters," and appears to be treating them as such. If you or a loved one has been injured by an automobile safety defect, call the attorneys of Stripling & Stripling, P.A. at 800-226-8898 for a free consultation regarding your potential claim.

The full NHTSA press release can be found here.