In excess of 1,000 people who drive Toyota and Lexus models have complained that the vehicles suddenly accelerate, without any attempt made by the drivers. Since the problem came to light in 2001, there have been many complaints regarding the same. But a recent investigation has revealed that the number of reports lodged earlier is lesser than actual figures.

As per the probe, there have been as many as 19 deaths because of crashes due to sudden and unintentional acceleration, in addition to various other crashes and incidences. Earlier figures reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration confirmed only 100 such happenings, including 17 crashes and 5 deaths.

In the past 7 years, sudden runaway incidences with regards of Toyota and Lexus makes have triggered as many as 8 different investigations by the NHTSA, but 6 out of those had been closed without finding a defect. A fresh investigation has, however, disclosed that there have been over 1,000 separate incidents of sudden speeding and 19 deaths.

As a result of the growing number of complaints, Toyota in September had announced that it would recall as many as 3.8 million of its vehicles from the American market. In wake of the new figures, however, it seems that both the company as well as the authorities would have to look into the matter more gravely.