Product liability lawyers across the nation are seeking to reopen many Toyota SUV rollover lawsuits after a former Toyota Motor Company attorney accused the automaker of fraud and racketeering – specifically for withholding or deleting electronic documents and crash safety data in up to 300 product liability lawsuits.

Fraud & racketeering allegations

Former Toyota defense lawyer Dimitrios Biller has filed a wrongful termination lawsuit against Toyota that also accuses the car maker of fraudulent activity and racketeering while defending SUV rollover and seatbelt lawsuits. Biller alleges that Toyota withheld or deleted electronic documentation and crash safety data from opposing counsel and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

300 cases over a four year period may be affected

Product liability attorneys say that the consequences of Biller's accusations could be extraordinary for consumers who were injured or died as a result of a rollover or defective seatbelt while in a Toyota vehicle. It is estimated that nearly 300 rollover lawsuits or seatbelt lawsuits – involving many Toyota makes and models – alleging defective design which were decided between 2004 and 2007 may be affected this new information.

Biller's accusations were very specific – that, in addition to withholding information in civil cases, Toyota didn't fully disclose crash test results that were used in the proposed federal rules on roof safety. In fact, he claims that Toyota simply refused to report unfavorable roof crush test results to the government – and instead, conducted other tests that would place the company in a more favorable light.

Court rules against Toyota; Litigation likely

Toyota denies the allegations and recently attempted to keep Biller's statements out of court based on attorney client privilege and confidentiality issues. However, its request has already been denied. While it's too early to know whether the cases will be reopened, litigation seems likely based on the disclosure of this new information.

If you had a lawsuit against Toyota that may be affected by this information, contact an experienced SUV rollover lawyer as soon as possible to determine how your case may be affected and what damages you might be entitled to.

For additional information about automobile manufacturer's responsibilities for making vehicles crash worthy and preventing rollovers – especially through the use of seat belts, roofs and side air curtains, please click here.