Ternary operator. But yes, quite handy. As are the sensible-default operators some languages have such as the Elvis-operator ?: in Groovy and ?? in C# :)

It's really easy for all of us here on Slashdot to sit back and analyze the situation from the comfort of our desks/homes/phones. I agree that there are several things that can be done to regain control of the car or minimize these problems, but would we even do them? Suppose these issues are real, and that it is not the bandwagon effect or incapable drivers. Things can happen while driving very, very fast. Pulling out in front of someone unexpectedly, meeting a turn and being unable to slow down, etc. We are used to being in control of our cars. The onset of panic when we realize that the car is surging forward can be crippling. Adrenaline starts flowing, our muscles tighten up, our legs press the pedals involuntarily, etc. A rational, calm mind would easily see that putting the engine into neutral would alleviate the issue. A terror-sticken mind in a one-ton metal coffin with trees and other cars suddenly flying at you locks down. I don't believe Toyota's cars are more prone than others to these failures, but think what a normal person would realistically do if this situation occurred.