NHTSA is prepared to levy a $16.4 million dollar fine against Toyota because it "knowingly hid a dangerous defect" that caused sudden acceleration, according to Transporation Secretary Ray LaHood.
According to LaHood, Toyota waited at least four months before it told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration about vehicle accelerator pedals that may stick.
“We now have proof that Toyota failed to live up to its legal obligations,” LaHood said in the statement. “Worse yet, they knowingly hid a dangerous defect for months from U.S. officials and did not take action to protect millions of drivers and their families.”
Toyota's response?
While we have not yet received their letter, we understand that NHTSA has taken a position on this recall. We have already taken a number of important steps to improve our communications with regulators and customers on safety-related matters as part of our strengthened overall commitment to quality assurance. These include the appointment of a new Chief Quality Officer for North America and a greater role for the region in making safety-related decisions.
Wondering about the photo above? It's the Toyota FINE :)
