Louisiana drivers may have taken note of an accident in California that led to the deaths of five people. The investigation indicates that the vehicle, a Toyota Yaris, may have entered into an uncontrollable acceleration, which would have robbed the driver of the ability to control the vehicle at a critical time and possibly contributed to the fatal accident. This raises suspicions that the unintended acceleration may have its source in manufacturing defects, a problem that has affected Toyota vehicles in the past.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is looking into the two-car accident that happened in the Los Angeles area on Dec. 31, 2015. The California Highway Patrol has also been investigating the accident and has so far determined that drunk driving was not a factor.
Toyota vehicles have had problems with stuck accelerators before. Previous instances have led to auto recalls as well as lawsuits against the company.
Manufacturers of automobiles are responsible for crafting quality products that perform as safely as possible. Any failure by the manufacturer to meet safety regulations and specifications could leave them liable for accidents resulting from their negligence. Those who have been injured in an accident caused by a defective vehicle part may want to seek compensation for the losses related to the car accident injuries that resulted. These losses could include the cost of medical care and treatment, rehabilitation expenses and, in the event that the victim is unable to return to work, the amount of wages that have been and will be lost. An attorney who has experience with this type of litigation can often be of assistance to such a victim in preparing and filing a lawsuit seeking applicable damages.
Source: CBS News, “Uncontrolled acceleration in deadly Toyota crash?”, Jan. 5, 2016
