17th Oct 2012, 15:48

Of course it's a big deal if there is a mechanical issue that could put one's life in danger, and said part should be recalled. However, that in no way absolves the driver of responsibility to do everything they can if something does happen.

As far as safety issues go, it seems to me that sudden acceleration should be one of the most survivable, don't you think? What the hell is so hard to understand about putting the car in neutral? Do these people have no concept at all of how a car works? If, by some bizarre coincidence, you can't shift into neutral, you should turn the ignition off, then switch back to the On position and stop the car -- the worst here is that you will lose hydraulics, which isn't really that big of a deal. I would much rather have to deal with some sudden acceleration incident, than the aforementioned domestic defects whereby one loses complete control of steering because it's locked up, or the wheel has fallen off, or a rusted spring has caused a tire blowout.

Now, I have read a bit about Prius's having loss of brake issues. THAT is a worrisome defect.