David M. Benenfeld Blog

Dade, Broward, & Palm Beach Product Liability: Toyota Recalls Lexus Hybrid

Toyota Motor Corp. has recalled and stopped all sales of the 2010 Lexus HS 250h hybrid in response to government tests that revealed a risk of fire, according to the LA Times.  Specifically, the tests revealed that a rear-end collision could cause the hybrid to leak fuel, which could result in a fire.  Although the defect has not resulted in any known car accidents or injuries, the risk of serious or even fatal injuries prompted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to order Toyota's recall of approximately 17,000 sedans, 4,000 of which are still at dealerships.  Toyota conducted its own testing on the hybrid before introducing it last summer, but did not find any defect in the fuel tank.  In a crash test by a contractor for NHTSA, however, more than 142 grams of fuel spilled upon impact with a barrier at a speed of 80 kilometers per hour.  According to Toyota spokesman Brian Lyons, no remedy has been found for the problem at this point.  

When auto accidents are caused by defective car parts, in certain instances, a product liability claim may be filed.  If you have been injured in a Broward, Palm Beach, or Dade County car accident that resulted from the negligence of the manufacturer, another driver, or another party, contact Ft. Lauderdale car accident attorney David Benenfeld for free resources and answers to your questions.