SAN DIEGO--Toyota is investigating the report of a Prius hybrid that apparently sped out of control in San Diego before its driver managed to halt the vehicle by standing on the brakes and with the help of a CHP officer who drove alongside him.

The automaker, which has recalled millions of cars over sudden acceleration, said it is dispatching a technician to investigate the incident. It happened on Interstate 8 when James Sikes, 61, found his Prius accelerating out of control.

Sikes said his initial efforts to slow down failed as his vehicle reached speeds of over 90 mph.

A CHP officer eventually caught up with Sikes and pulled in front of the Prius and helped it come to a stop while Sikes turned off the electronic ignition after several attempts and applied the emergency brake.

The episode happened on the same day that Toyota said its own investigation debunked sudden acceleration being linked to electronic issues. (Source: Orange County Register)

Story Date: September 2, 2010