Design Flaws in Household Appliances: Know the Risks and Your Rights

About 23% of all home fires are caused by household appliances with design flaws, according to Consumer Reports. Additionally, about 20–25% of households in the U.S., who checked their appliances for recalls, discovered they had at least one recalled product, as reported by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. It's important for users to be aware of the dangers associated with defective product design, regularly check for appliance recalls, and know what steps to take after being injured by a faulty product.

Frequently Recalled Faulty Home Appliances

From washing machines and dryers to dishwashers, stoves, and refrigerators, design flaws in kitchen and household appliances are unfortunately quite common. Recently, a class-action lawsuit was filed against Bosch 800 series microwave/oven combinations claiming that a design defect on the display renders the device unsuitable for its intended use. However, design flaws can be more than just an inconvenience to consumers. Dangerous defects indeed pose several safety risks including electric shock, fires, and serious injuries from falls or slips (possibly caused by device leakage, for example). Alternately, space heaters and electric blankets may also suffer from flawed product design. If these items malfunction or have faulty wiring, severe electrical burns or carbon monoxide poisoning may occur.

Got Injured by a Faulty Product? What to Do

If you've been injured by unsafe household appliances, a product liability attorney can help you file a lawsuit to receive financial compensation for lost wages, current and future medical expenses, as well as physical and emotional pain and suffering. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products are safe for consumers and free from any defects in the intended design. They're also legally required to warn about potential risks and harmful effects, as well as how to avoid dangers. When manufacturers fail to meet these obligations, they can be held legally liable for the harm caused. Since product liability cases are complex, it's crucial that injured parties consult with experienced attorneys who specialize in this area to receive the maximum compensation they deserve. Unfortunately, design defects and recalled products are a serious issue in the U.S. It's important for consumers to stay informed about the latest recalled products and consult with product liability attorneys if they've been injured by faulty appliances.