Product recalls is a warning to consumers that a product is unsafe for various reasons. Government agencies may issue a recall when they discover issues, but manufacturers often voluntarily recall products to avoid litigation and a public relations fiasco. While some recalls are preemptive and are announced before casualties are reported, others do involve serious injury or even death for victims. If you or a loved one was hurt, you should discuss your legal remedies with a Baltimore County, MD personal injury attorney
As a service to the public, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) maintains a list of recalled products, which are dangerous based upon a wide range of factors. The top recalls reported by CPSC for 2018, which are noteworthy for various reasons, include:
- Kidde Smoke Alarms: This product recall is worthy of mention because the defect prevented affected items from doing the only task they are designed for: Detecting smoke. Kidde recalled more than 450,000 smoke alarms when it discovered that a cap covered up a sensor, preventing it from performing its primary function.
- Vornado Air Electric Space Heaters: The reason this product line made the list is that it was one of the few defective consumer products that actually caused a fatality. A man was killed when the unit overheated and started a fire, while there were 19 other reports of fires that did not result in any casualties.
- Carter’s Children’s Cardigan Sets: Children are among the most vulnerable users of consumer products, which is why product defects in this category are especially troubling. The manufacturer recalled almost 110,000 of the units when it received reports of toddlers removing a button and putting it in their mouths. Though no one was hurt, the button presented a risk of choking.
- Frigidaire Mandoline Slicers: This product recall is noteworthy because it involves an inherently dangerous product. With their razor-sharp blades, mandolines could cause serious injuries unless used with meticulous care and in strict compliance with the instructions. However, Frigidaire recalled certain models when it received reports that the blades could separate from the plastic assembly, creating a risk of serious lacerations.
Liability for Product Recalls and Defective Products
Despite the dangers presented by these and other product defects, it is important to clarify two key misconceptions:
- Not all product recalls establish liability for a personal injury case; and,
- Not all products liability cases require there to be a recall announced by the manufacturer.
If you were hurt by a defective product, you must prove the essential elements of a defective products case. The recall may be important evidence, but it does not automatically mean you are entitled to compensation. Instead, you must meet the legal requirements of the different theories of products liability.
Discuss Defective Products with a Baltimore County, MD Personal Injury Lawyer
If you were injured by a defective product, you do have rights regardless of whether the manufacturer issued a recall. Products liability claims can be complicated, so you should trust a personal injury attorney to represent you. For more information, please contact attorney Michael A. Freedman to schedule a free consultation regarding your circumstances.
