March 14, 2010 in Nation/World

Investigation into runaway Prius casts doubt on driver’s claims

 
Associated Press photo

James Sikes speaks to the press in El Cajon, Calif., on Tuesday.
(Full-size photo)

SAN DIEGO – Investigators with Toyota Motor Corp. and the federal government were unable to make a Toyota Prius speed out of control as its owner said it did on a California freeway, according to a draft memorandum obtained Saturday by the Associated Press that a congressional spokesman says casts doubt on the driver’s story.

James Sikes, 61, called 911 on Monday to report losing control of his Prius as the hybrid reached speeds of 94 mph. A California Highway Patrol officer helped Sikes bring the vehicle to a safe stop on Interstate 8.

Federal and Toyota investigators who examined and test drove the car could not replicate the problems Sikes said he encountered, the memo said.

The findings raise questions about “the credibility of Mr. Sikes’ reporting of events,” said Kurt Bardella, a spokesman for California Rep. Darrell Issa, the top Republican on the House Oversight Committee.

Sikes could not be reached for comment. His wife, Patty Sikes, said he stands by his story.

“Everyone can just leave us alone,” she said. “Jim didn’t get hurt. There’s no intent at all to sue Toyota.”

Associated Press

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Three comments on this story so far. Add yours!

  • JBlim on March 14 at 8:33 a.m.

    What is this strange coalition of “brilliant” Toyota engineers and regulation fearing Republicans attacking Toyota customer/victims? Better have your life insurance up to date and your test pilot credentials in order next time you get behind the wheel of your Toyota.

  • Ninch on March 14 at 8:48 a.m.

    You don’t get it? The guy is NOT a victim. This an attempted scam…. ergo decision (after consulting attorney) to not make any claims (sue) Toyota.

    That the guy would NOT put the car in neutral (and had several lame excuses as to why not) when the 911 operator tried to instruct him to do so was the first clue. I am not at all surprised that no problems could be found in the suspected Prius.

  • JBlim on March 14 at 11:53 a.m.

    Why didn’t he put it in neutral? Maybe the guy is stupid. Is that a crime now? If it’s a scam, prove it. I haven’t seen any proof. Toyota and their minions ought to get actual proof before they start with the character assassination.

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