Legal Expert Calls For Car Safety To Improve

Global car manufacturer Toyota has announced it has reached a settlement in relation to a fatal road accident in Utah in 2010, believed to have been caused by the unintended acceleration of one of its Camry models.

The case, thought to be the first of numerous cases related to deaths and injuries caused by problems with its vehicles, related to the deaths of Paul Van Alfen, Charlene Jones Lloyd and their family.

Previous concerns had been raised about some cars built by the manufacturer after it was found that accelerator pedals could become trapped under floor mats in some models.

Toyota, whose cars have been subject to several recalls across the globe in recent years, stated it would choose to settle “select cases” but would defend its products when it is deemed necessary.

Irwin Mitchell’s specialist product liability team have vast experience in acting for people who have suffered injury as a result of problems related to defective products of all kinds.

David Urpeth, a Partner and specialist in such product liability claims at the national law firm, said: “There have been several high-profile issues raised in relation to Toyota-built cars in the past, but it must be hoped that this and future cases will ensure those affected by such issues will get the justice they deserve.

“People who buy cars put their faith in manufacturers that they will meet required safety specifications that not only keep them safe, but also other road users and pedestrians.

“It is vital that every effort is made to learn lessons from each and every case so that improvements continue to be seen in relation to the safety of cars.”