The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has just opened up a formal investigation of the 2010 Toyota Prius Hybrid to investigate allegations of momentary loss of braking capability while traveling over an uneven road surface, pothole or bump. If you’ve been following news surrounding Toyota recently, they are also dealing with issues involving stuck accelerator pedals.

The Office of Defects Investigation has received over 100 reports from consumers, including four reports that involved auto accidents. Investigators have spoken with consumers and started the investigation work already.

“Safety is our top priority,” said Secretary Ray LaHood. “That is why in recent weeks NHTSA has also issued a consumer advisory on the recall of several models of Toyota vehicles and the Pontiac Vibe involving pedal entrapment and sticky accelerator pedals. We will continue to monitor these issues closely.”

LaHood, who sparked a little controvery just days ago when he said that all Toyota owners with a recall vehicle should not be driving their vehicles (he later said he misspoke), met with Toyota president Akio Toyoda, who reassured him that Toyota places safety concerns as their number 1 priority. My guess is that falls right after profitability but whatever.

The NHTSA’s most important sources of information about safety issues like these most often come from consumers who are using the product. NHTSA officials review each one within one business day and analyze the information they are given. Over the last three years, NHTSA’s defect and compliance investigations have resulted in over 500 recalls involving nearly 24 milion vehicles. There are currently three investigations involving Toyota vehicles.

If you have one of the recalled Toyota vehicles, you are strongly advised to contact your local dealership. For more information, consumers should visit www.nhtsa.gov or call the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.