Toyota has entered settlement talks over the “sudden acceleration” lawsuits and will reportedly start “intensive settlement process” to resolve the lawsuits in which plaintiffs claim the issue with the automobiles caused death or severe injury. Trials in California were set to take place in March, and there are nearly 200 claims in that state. Another case is set for trial in February in Michigan.

“Participation in the intensive settlement process is open to all plaintiffs,” U.S. District Judge James V. Selna in Santa Ana, Calif. said in the order on December 12th. “Cases that do not resolve during the initial settlement conference shall be set for a formal mediation.”

Bloomberg News provides the essentials: