Canada-Wide Settlement Approved in Toyota Economic Loss Class Action

TORONTO, March 17, 2014 /CNW/ - A Canada-wide settlement with Toyota relating to consumer claims regarding alleged economic loss following certain recalls in 2009 and 2010 has been approved by Courts in Ontario, Québec, Nova Scotia and Saskatchewan. The settlement resolves claims for economic loss related to alleged unintended acceleration, commenced against Toyota on behalf of certain Canadian owners and lessors of Toyota and Lexus vehicles with an electronic throttle control system ("ETCS-i"). The approval of the settlement does not impact ongoing litigation for personal injury or wrongful death claims related to alleged unintended acceleration.

Steven Hamilton, the representative plaintiff who commenced the action on behalf of Ontario national class members said: "It's a relief to know that Toyota is offering substantial benefits to a very large number of Canadian consumers in order to resolve these actions. I think that this is a fair settlement for Toyota owners across the country."

The settlement provides class members with a Customer Support Program for a minimum of three years and up to 10 years, to cover all parts and labour costs for certain vehicle components related to ETCS-i. Toyota class members may also have their vehicles equipped with a Brake Override System ("BOS") free of charge, or will receive cash payments "in lieu" of the BOS upgrade where their vehicle is not eligible to receive the BOS.  In addition, Toyota has agreed to fund scholarships at 5 Canadian engineering schools totalling $600,000. Toyota has also provided funding for claims administration, notice costs, honoraria for the representative plaintiffs, legal fees, disbursements and taxes.

The settlement was negotiated by law firms Rochon Genova LLP and Kim Orr PC, both of Toronto, Consumer Law Group of Montréal and Merchant Law Group of Regina.

To Make a Claim

Claim information is available at: www.toyotaELsettlement.ca. A copy of the settlement agreement and a list of eligible vehicles for the BOS installation are available on the website. The website should be visited regularly for updates.  Details can also be obtained by calling toll free: 1-855-823-0650.

SOURCE: ROCHON GENOVA LLP