Vaping devices and e-cigarettes have become increasingly popular, especially among teens and young adults. However, these devices can cause catastrophic injuries and deaths. Some of the problems arise from defects in the design of the product, batteries used in the products, or the potential harm to a person’s health. Below are three potentially harmful and deadly issues with e-cigarettes that might require the assistance of a California personal injury or wrongful death lawyer if an injury occurs.
1. Problems with the lithium-ion batteries used in vaping devices.
Vaping devices utilize lithium-ion batteries to power the e-cigarette. Unfortunately, these batteries can be hazardous and dangerous. Lithium-ion batteries do not always have clear markings that note their power ratings. Therefore, it can be easy to place a battery in a vaping device that is far too strong for use in that device. The result could be a deadly explosion or fire.
Also, some companies that manufacture vaping devices may attempt to cut costs by purchasing substandard lithium-ion batteries for use in their products. These “seconds” were rejected for use by the manufacturer, distributors, or other parties. The use of substandard lithium-ion batteries in vaping devices could lead to an explosion or fire.
2. Increased Nicotine Consumption
Some individuals choose vape devices because they want to decrease smoking or quit smoking. Other individuals believe that vaping is safer than smoking cigarettes.
However, using flavored nicotine can result in addictive behaviors. One Juul pod has just as much nicotine as a pack of cigarettes. Because of the various flavors and the “safety” claims by manufacturers, an individual could actually be using more nicotine than if he or she was smoking traditional cigarettes. Also, most studies show that using e-cigarettes do not significantly reduce cigarette use.
The truth is that science is still learning how vaping and e-cigarettes impact a person’s health. This generation is the test subjects because we will probably not know for a few decades how addictive and harmful these devices might be for a person’s long-term health.
3. Defects in the Design of E-Cigarettes Lead to Injuries
Numerous lawsuits have been filed linking personal injuries to e-cigarettes and other vaping devices. Some of the lawsuits focus on the batteries exploding or catching fire, much like the lawsuits involving defective batteries in cell phones and laptops. Injuries from defective batteries can be catastrophic. However, defective batteries are not the only cause of personal injury associated with defectively designed e-cigarettes.
In some cases, the problem stems from the design of the unit that allows a consumer to replace individual parts of the device instead of replacing the entire device. If the device is not re-assembled property, a serious injury may occur. A debate is ongoing about whether this is a consumer error or a preventable defect in the product’s design. The matter could also be an issue with a lack of adequate warnings and labels.
Contact a California Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Case
If you have been injured while using a vaping device or e-cigarette, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. The first step in determining your legal rights and options for recovery of compensation for damages is to discuss your case with a California personal injury lawyer.
A California personal injury lawyer reviews the circumstances and facts in your case, researches current laws, and analyzes your case to provide you with an explanation of the law and your chances of recovery if you file a product liability claim. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn about your rights from a trusted legal source.
