Safety Recalls and Violations Could Potentially Bring Criminal Charges against Toyota
With mounting Congressional probes, mushrooming lawsuits and a federal probe into the reporting of sudden unintended acceleration defects, the risk of criminal charges against Toyota has been raised. The legal stakes are high for Toyota because it is the first automaker embroiled in major safety issues since tough new criminal penalties became law after rollover recalls in 2000 involving Ford Explorers and Firestone Tires. The Transportation Recall Enhancement, Accountability, and Documentation (TREAD) Act for the first time made individuals who intentionally mislead federal regulators about safety defects subject to possible criminal fines and/or prison.
Toyota revealed last month that a federal grand jury in the Southern District of New York subpoenaed documents relating to sudden acceleration in various vehicles and braking issues in the Prius. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating the timeliness of Toyota’s reporting of its sudden unintended acceleration complaints and fixes. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood stated that Toyota could face civil penalties but the grand jury subpoenas signal that the United States Attorney for that district has a criminal investigation underway. NHTSA has often worked closely with the Justice Department in high profile safety investigations. Toyota claims it reported in a timely manner and is complying with all subpoenas. The Justice Department will not comment.
If you or a loved one has sustained an injury due to a Toyota defect, please give one of our experienced Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Reiff & Bily a call for a free, no obligation consultation at 1-800-421-9595 or online at www.reiffandbily.com.
