Toyota Camry Hybrid Brake Problems Prompt Outcry For Recall
The Toyota Camry is widely known as one of the most practical cars on the market. That fact, coupled with its environmentally-friendly hybrid option, makes it one of the best-selling vehicles in recent memory.
However, recent issues with the Toyota Camry Hybrid brake system have caused unexpected accidents, injuries and harm to drivers – prompting a public outcry for a recall of the vehicle.
If you are one of the hundreds of Toyota Camry Hybrid owners who recently experienced problems with your vehicle’s brake system, we encourage you to contact product liability attorneys at The Sanders Firm as soon as possible for a complimentary legal consultation.
Federal investigation prompts ‘repair campaigns’
Recently, the federal Highway Traffic Safety Administration conducted an investigation into the reported issues with the Toyota Camry Hybrid vehicles and possible automotive defects with the brake lines. More specifically, Toyota has launched two separate “repair campaigns” to address two distinct brake issues affecting its 2007 through 2011 models, which includes over 177,000 vehicles. The first repair campaign offers owners a free repair of their brake-fluid reservoir filter, which has a tendency to become clogged, thereby effecting the front brake assist. For some drivers, this means that using the brakes to stop the vehicle takes substantial brake pedal strength and force.
The second issue surrounding the Toyota Camry Hybrid pertains to its anti-lock brake system actuator, which has been causing the ABS functions to fail – leaving drivers in a serious predicament in the event of inclement weather or other roadway hazards. A related problem has also emerged with regard to the “brake pedal stroke sensor.” Both issues require drivers to step heavily upon the brake pedal to ensure the vehicle stops in time – which can lead to accidents, collisions and injury.
How auto defect lawyers can help
Auto defect lawyers are particularly experienced in the nuances of product liability litigation as it relates to motor vehicles.
Under the laws of product liability, an auto manufacturer can face liability for any of the following:
- Negligently designing a vehicle in such a way that it amounts to an unreasonably dangerous hazard;
- Negligent manufacturing protocols and systems, causing defects in the way the vehicle was assembled;
- Failing to warn consumers as to a known hazard or problem with a vehicle.
The brake line issues with the Toyota Camry Hybrids are well-known not only to the public in general, but to Toyota as well. Despite the concerns affecting hundreds of thousands of vehicles, the auto maker has refused to issue a Toyota Camry hybrid recall, and is limiting its redress to a free repair only.
However, a free brake line repair cannot address the serious bodily injuries and property damage caused when these faulty brake lines lead to a major car accident.
By working with an experienced and knowledgeable lawyer, you can work to obtain both actual and general damages. Actual damages are those that are easily quantifiable and proven through invoices or bills, including medical expenses, lost wages and damage to your vehicle. General damages are those that are not quantifiable, including pain and suffering, mental anguish and anxiety.
Contact a reputable auto defect lawyer today
If you are interested in discussing your recent experience with a Toyota Camry Hybrid, particularly if you experienced brake failure or difficulty stopping the vehicle, please contact The Sanders Firm for a free evaluation of your claim. You may have grounds for seeking damages through a Toyota brake defect lawsuit. To learn more about your legal options, you can reach our offices at 1-800-FAIR-PLAY. Resources
- Consumer Reports, Why Toyota should recall the Camry hybrid, https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2014/07/why-toyota-should-recall-the-camry-hybrid/index.htm
- USA Today, Consumer Reports urges recall of Camry hybrid, https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2014/07/29/toyota-camry-hybrid-consumer-reports-recall/13337619/
