The company's press release provided an explanation of what a driver might experience:

The condition is rare, but can occur when the pedal mechanism becomes worn and, in certain conditions, the accelerator pedal may become harder to depress, slower to return or, in the worst case, stuck in a partially depressed position.

Toyota noted that the remedy and timing of the fix isn't apparent yet. Today's announcement is a notice that they will bring a recall, not the actual recall filing itself.

Although Toyota hasn't indicated how many incidents led to this particular recall, they did indicate that reports of stuck gas pedals have surfaced in vehicles with no floor mats.

In recent months, Toyota has investigated isolated reports of sticking accelerator pedal mechanisms in certain vehicles without the presence of floor mats, said TMS Group Vice President Irv Miller.

Our investigation indicates that there is a possibility that certain accelerator pedal mechanisms may, in rare instances, mechanically stick in a partially depressed position or return slowly to the idle position. Consistent with our commitment to the safety of our cars and our customers, we have initiated this voluntary recall action.

 Following the tragedy that claimed the lives of a family of four last August, Toyota has been more closely investigating throttle issues on all of their vehicles. The terrible tragedy of the Saylor family occurred when the gas pedal of the family's loaner Lexus ES350 became entrapped on the floor mat. We later learned that the accident was entirely avoidable, as another customer reported a similar issue to the dealership earlier that week. Sadly, the message was never relayed and nothing was done to address it.

While the dealership was more to blame in that situation, Toyota began an intense investigation. Besides issuing a voluntary recall on affected vehicles, Toyota also offered some advice that can be used here as well, if you happen to find yourself in a situation where your gas pedal becomes stuck while depressed.

If the accelerator pedal sticks in a partially open throttle position or returns slowly to idle position, the vehicle can be controlled with firm and steady application of the brakes. Don't pump the brakes because it could deplete the vacuum assist. That would make it even harder to depress the brake pedal. The brakes will stop the vehicle no matter the throttle position. When under control, the vehicle should be driven to the nearest safe location and the engine should be turned off. Contact a Toyota dealer as soon as possible for assistance.