While Toyotas traditionally get decent crash test results for their weight and class, and are generally deemed to be reliable and energy efficient, the ABS slippage currently being found in the Toyota Prius (and other models) isn’t just having Japan considering a recall; it’s also affecting the auto insurance industry.

How so? One way is that there are a significant number of Prius drivers making insurance claims for damage, and blaming the automaker for their accidents.

In an attempt to control this trend, the state of Massachusetts has issued some guidelines for Prius owners in their state. Specifically, those drivers who believe their accidents were caused by pedal problems can appeal both recent and old auto insurance surcharges.

According to a report in the Boston Herald, insurance regulators decided on Friday that vehicle owners covered by the Japanese automaker’s recall can ask for surcharges to be reversed if they can prove that their accidents were caused by uncontrolled auto acceleration.

In a consumer alert, officials wrote, “”In light of the recently announced recall of certain models of Toyota vehicles for unintended acceleration, the Division of Insurance is issuing this (ruling for) drivers who may have received an at-fault determination as a result of (an) accident.”

Motorists who want to request the surcharge reversal have to prove that they were driving models covered under the recall, and that uncontrolled acceleration caused their accidents. In addition, appeals must be lodged by March 30th, or within 60 days of receiving a recall notice, whichever is later.

In some cases, it may cost $50 to file an appeal.