Toyota is fined $16.4 million for hiding known dangers from US regulators

The U.S. government says Toyota Motor Corp. “knowingly hid a dangerous defect” by trying to cover up the Toyota gas pedal problems that have caused some vehicles to unexpectedly accelerate out-of-control. For this reason, the U.S. Department of Transportation has imposed a civil penalty of $16.4 million. Transportation Secretary Ra LaHood said that “We now have proof that Toyota failed to live up to its legal obligations . . . 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. For those reasons, we are seeking the maximum penalty possible under current laws.” For the full story and links to more useful information go here.