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Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood issued an advisory to owners of late model Toyotas that the eight models involved in January’s recall of more than 2.3 million vehicles should not be driven until they have been examined and, if need be, repaired. January’s recall occurred due to a design flaw with the gas pedal that causes friction and sticking. When the pedal sticks, it can cause sudden unintended acceleration in the vehicle. At least 19 deaths have been reported for drivers of Toyotas in motor vehicle accidents.

LaHood issued his warning today in a testimony before the House Appropriations subcommittee on transportation. Coincidentally, Toyota also announced this week that a solution to the problem had been developed, as a special shim will be attached to the gas pedal of all affected vehicles to eliminate the friction. Toyota has halted the production of all eight models affected by the recall, which includes the RAV4, Corolla, Matrix, Avalon, Camry, Highlander, Tundra, and Sequoia

January’s recall included 2.3 million vehicles – as well as 2 million in Europe and 75,000 in China – and was the second massive Toyota recall since October. In October, the world’s leading automobile manufacturer announced the largest recall in company history, as 3.8 million vehicles were recalled due to floor mat issues. The recalls are unrelated, however both involve sudden unintended acceleration.

A wide variety of lawsuits are currently mounting against Toyota. Toyota will meet with two congressional committees this month to discuss liability and the impact of these recalls.

If you or a loved one owns one of the affected Toyota models and have experienced problems with sudden unintended acceleration or stuck accelerators, contact Newsome Law Firm and fill out a case evaluation form today. Our team of attorneys has experience specific to complications associated with automobile recalls. Not only can they give you the legal guidance you need, they can help you get the compensation you deserve.