Toyota Prius brake flaw may expose the company to further liability

Toyota has admitted to braking problems in the Prius after receiving nearly 180 complaints in the US and Japan. This latest admission comes on the heels of a 4.5 million car recall in which the automaker warned consumers that gas pedals may stick on various models.

The Atlanta Journal Constitution has the story.

The design defect within the Prius’ braking system causes the brakes to become unresponsive for a brief period of time. The company noted that when the vehicle moves over an uneven or wet surface there is a lag due to the vehicle switching from hydraulic brakes to electronic brakes.

In the US, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has received around 100 complaints so far. Of those complaints, at least two involved accidents with reported injuries. It is unclear how many other crashes and injuries may be related to the Prius’ breaking system.

Prius drivers who believe that they have been injured due to the Prius’ breaking system should know that they may have a product liability claim against Toyota. When a manufacturer creates a defective product and the defect causes an injury, the law generally entitles the injured consumer to money damages for the harm he or she suffered. In many cases, the monetary award can be significant.