A downward spiral that started with mere rumblings of Toyota incidents in 2004 has gained tremendous momentum and become one of the most discussed news stories of 2010.

New allegations against the company could further damage Toyota’s standing and alter the mindsets of Toyota supporters. These allegations are not focused on the manufacturing problems of the automobiles, but instead concern the questionable conscience Toyota may have used in handling the issue.

When Toyota publicly identified floor mats and sticky pedals as the cause of reported uncontrolled acceleration, some argue they did so out of convenience and dishonesty.

While studies show that floor mats did affect certain dangers in a small number of Toyota cases, the so-called fix-it of recalled floor mats was insufficient. According to sources, problems continued because floor mats weren’t the root of the problem—and Toyota knew that.

To save money, Toyota fingered floor mats as the culprit early on, thereby avoiding the need to investigate and address a bigger, electrical issue. The alleged lie benefited Toyota’s bottom line by saving them $100 million and provided a false security for Toyota owners and consumers.

If these allegations are true, though, Toyota would not be the first car manufacturer to prioritize profit over public safety when faced with problems. For example, in the 1970s Ford avoided government recommended changes to their Pinto, noting that the $11 it would take to change each vehicle was more expensive than settling the lawsuits brought against the company.

In 1973, General Motors also notoriously weighed the value of life against the value of the dollar in their Ivey Memo. The memo specifically assigned each G.M.-related fatality a value of $200,000, raising eyebrows and lowering the public’s confidence in the auto industry.

Investigations are still afoot to identify the propriety in Toyota’s management of their situation. Ultimately, whether Toyota’s name continues to be used among the bad company of the Pinto and the Ivey Memo depends on further investigation and Toyota’s future actions to protect their consumers.

If you have been injured in a car accident and need legal help, contact a personal injury attorney near you. A lawyer will explain your legal options and guide you through the legal process so you can hopefully recover what you deserve.