Prius recall looms -- but it'll come too late for Elizabeth James

At this hour, reports suggest that Toyota is preparing a global recall of its hybrid Prius model, likely to be announced later today or tomorrow, following complaints about "delayed braking," among other things. That's not news to Eagle resident Elizabeth James, one of the many Prius drivers whose stories appear...

By Michael Roberts

February 8, 2010

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At this hour, reports suggest that Toyota is preparing a global recall of its hybrid Prius model, likely to be announced later today or tomorrow, following complaints about "delayed braking," among other things.

That's not news to Eagle resident Elizabeth James, one of the many Prius drivers whose stories appear in our April 2009 feature "The Prius Can Take Owners on a Wild Ride." Thanks to what reporter Paul Knight refers to as an "unintended acceleration" problem, James's vehicle wound up in a river.

In that case, Toyota attempted to blame the accident on excessive brake wear -- but such excuses will likely be recalled, too.

Meanwhile, Lakewood's Ryan Scharrell has filed a class-action lawsuit against Toyota, with the Prius among the models named. Expect more legal action here and elsewhere once the company follows through with this long delayed action.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

Contact: Michael Roberts

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