Common Products That Are Recalled And What To Do If You’re Injured

Every year, thousands of products are recalled due to safety concerns, but many of these recalls happen only after injuries have already occurred. Defective products can cause serious harm, including burns, broken bones, choking, and even life-threatening conditions. Understanding which products are most commonly recalled and what to do if an injury occurs can help protect legal rights and ensure fair compensation with the assistance of a skilled  personal injury lawyer. Our friends at Patterson Bray PLLC understand what common cases are, and detail some below.

Recalled Vehicles And Auto Parts

Car manufacturers frequently issue recalls when safety defects put drivers and passengers at risk. Some of the most common issues include brake failures that cause drivers to lose control, airbags that fail to deploy or explode upon impact, and steering system defects that make it difficult to maneuver the vehicle. Seat belts that do not latch properly and electrical system failures that can lead to fires are also common causes of recalls.

Automakers are responsible for notifying vehicle owners and providing free repairs, but defects are often discovered only after accidents have already happened. When an unsafe vehicle or malfunctioning part causes an injury, victims may be able to file a personal injury claim against the manufacturer.

Dangerous Children’s Products And Toys

Children’s products are recalled more frequently than many other consumer goods due to the serious risks they pose. Cribs and bassinets with faulty construction can collapse and trap infants, while high chairs and strollers with defective locking mechanisms can cause dangerous falls. Toys with small detachable parts create choking hazards, and stuffed animals or blankets with loose fibers or flammable materials can be unsafe for young children.

When a defective child’s product results in an injury, parents may have legal grounds to hold the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer accountable. Companies have a duty to ensure that the products they sell meet safety standards, and failing to do so can result in liability claims.

Defective Medical Devices And Prescription Drugs

Medical products and prescription drugs are subject to strict testing, but defects still make it to the market. Some of the most commonly recalled medical devices include artificial joints and implants that fail prematurely, pacemakers and heart monitors with electrical malfunctions, and ventilators or CPAP machines recalled due to contamination risks.

Prescription medications are also frequently recalled due to harmful impurities, incorrect dosages, or undisclosed side effects. Blood pressure medications, insulin, and over-the-counter drugs have all been subject to recalls in recent years, sometimes after causing serious health complications. If a recalled drug or medical device has caused harm, a legal claim may help recover damages for medical treatment, pain and suffering, and long-term health issues.

Unsafe Food And Beverages

Food recalls happen often due to contamination, mislabeling, or foreign objects found in packaging. Fresh produce is sometimes recalled for bacterial contamination, such as E. coli or salmonella, while dairy products have been linked to listeria outbreaks. Packaged snacks, cereals, and processed foods are occasionally recalled due to undisclosed allergens that pose a danger to those with food sensitivities. Meat and poultry products are sometimes found to contain harmful bacteria, and bottled drinks may have mold or improper sealing.

Food poisoning or allergic reactions from contaminated or mislabeled food can have serious consequences, particularly for children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. In cases where a recalled food product leads to illness, legal action may be necessary to hold manufacturers responsible.

Home Appliances And Electronics

Household products, appliances, and electronics are often recalled due to fire hazards, electrical malfunctions, or design flaws. Space heaters and electric blankets that overheat and catch fire, washing machines and dryers with faulty wiring, and blenders or kitchen appliances with blades that detach during use have all led to serious injuries. Smart devices, rechargeable batteries, and power strips have been recalled due to risks of overheating and explosion.

These defective products can cause burns, electrocution, and even house fires. When an unsafe appliance or electronic device results in injuries or property damage, those affected may be able to seek compensation.

What To Do If A Recalled Product Causes Injury

If an injury occurs due to a defective or recalled product, taking the right steps can strengthen a legal claim. Seeking immediate medical attention is essential to document the injury and begin treatment. Keeping the defective product, rather than throwing it away, is crucial because it may serve as evidence in the case. Checking for recall notices from the manufacturer or the Consumer Product Safety Commission can help determine whether the product has already been flagged as unsafe.

Documenting everything related to the injury, including photos of the product, medical records, and receipts showing proof of purchase, can support a claim. Consulting a legal professional can help determine the best course of action for recovering damages and holding the responsible company accountable.

Holding Negligent Companies Accountable

Manufacturers have a duty to ensure that their products are safe for consumers. When they fail to meet those standards, people get hurt. If a defective or recalled product has caused harm, taking legal action can help secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. Our colleagues at Mickey Keenan P.A. Attorneys at Law know that pursuing a claim also helps prevent future injuries by holding companies accountable and pushing for stricter safety measures. Seeking legal guidance ensures that victims receive the justice they deserve.