Target And Amazon Recall Portable Power Banks After Reports Of Fires And Explosions
Power banks have increasingly become a must-have product for customers due to their use of various electronic devices, such as cellphones, laptops, and tablets. Regrettably, recalls of certain portable chargers recently marketed by popular vendors like Amazon and Target have caused a wave of concerns about possible safety threats from lithium-ion batteries.
Specifically, federal safety regulators have issued warnings about the possibility that the recalled power banks could overheat, explode, or cause burns and fires during both charging and normal operation.
Why portable power banks are being recalled
Portable power banks use lithium-ion batteries, which are lighter and store significant energy. If these batteries are designed or produced defectively, they become unsafe to operate.
There are several battery incidents associated with the power bank product recalls. Some of them resulted in burns and/or damage to consumer property caused by defective charger fires that occurred at home, in a car, and while traveling.
It is especially hazardous for consumers to use portable devices because many people carry them in their backpacks or pockets unattended.
Injuries associated with defective lithium-ion batteries
Lithium-ion battery malfunctions can cause hazardous fires and explosions that could injure people. Even small electronic gadgets can produce heat intense enough to cause a battery to malfunction.
Some of the injuries associated with power banks and batteries include:
- Burning injuries
- Facial injuries
- Injuries to hands and fingers
- Smoking
- Injury to eyes
- Property loss due to fires
In worst-case scenarios, battery fires can spread and burn adjacent property. Some people may need to seek hospital admission for medical treatment of the injuries sustained.
Product liability claims involving lithium-ion batteries
If you were injured by an unsafe electronic product, you may have recourse under Florida law to file suit against the companies that manufactured and distributed the product. Manufacturers should guarantee that their products are safe for everyday use.
There are different entities that could be held liable for injuries caused by defective lithium-ion batteries, such as:
- Battery manufacturers
- The manufacturer of the product
- Importers and distributors
- Retailers selling the product
In some cases, big retailers such as Amazon and Target could be investigated for their role in the production or distribution of a dangerous product.
Product liability cases related to electronics usually revolve around whether the battery or device was designed poorly, had manufacturing defects, or had insufficient safety warning labels.
What consumers should do after a recall
If you have a recalled power bank, discontinue use immediately and comply with the manufacturer’s recall guidelines. It is important to note that lithium-ion batteries remain dangerous even when not charging; therefore, care should be taken when handling such products.
If someone suffers an injury due to a product defect in an electronic device, he/she should see a doctor and try to keep the product. This will assist him/her to prove any damage suffered from the use of the product in court.
Talk to a Florida Product Liability Lawyer Today
Halpern, Santos & Pinkert represent the interests of Florida residents who have been injured by a dangerous or defective consumer product. Call our Florida personal injury lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin preparing your claim right away.
