In a second, major recall event, Toyota announced its voluntary safety recall to address sticking accelerator pedals. This recall affects over 2 million vehicles of the following models: 2009-2010 RAV4, 2009-2010 Corolla, 2009-2010 Matrix, 2005-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 Camry, 2010 Highlander, 2007-2010 Tundra, and 2008-2010 Sequoia. Owners of these vehicles can expect notifications explaining how to contact their dealer for recall servicing.

The issue of sticking accelerator pedals has been under investigation and a matter of concern since reports of sticking accelerator pedals have been linked to high-speed crashes and fatalities.

‘In recent months, Toyota has investigated isolated reports of sticking accelerator pedal mechanisms in certain vehicles without the presence of floor mats,” said TMS Group Vice President Irv Miller. “Our investigation indicates that there is a possibility that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms may, in rare instances, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position. Consistent with our commitment to the safety of our cars and our customers, we have initiated this voluntary recall action.’

Toyota reports that the rare condition is attributed to worn pedal mechanisms that can cause the pedal to be slow to return to its normal position or even stuck in a partially depressed position.

Toyota advises owners who experience problems with a sticking accelerator pedal to apply firm, steady pressure without any pumping of the brakes and to park in the nearest safe location, turn the engine off, and contact a Toyota dealer for assistance. The investigation into unintended acceleration is ongoing to identify any other common causes that might be associated with the issue.

Owners who have experienced injury or the loss of use of their vehicle from a sticking accelerator pedal should contact a lemon law professional in their state to see what remedies are available.

“Anyone who has experienced injury or loss of vehicle use due to a sticking accelerator pedal vehicles safety defect should contact a qualified attorney who is experienced handling lemon law cases.” recommends lemon law attorney David Gorberg. “Lemon laws can vary greatly from state to state. New Jersey lemon law stipulates that just a single incident can qualify a vehicle as a lemon when it involves a potential serious safety issue. Other state laws, like Pennsylvania lemon law, may allow a dealer up to 3 attempts to repair the problem before a vehicle is designated a lemon.”