Product Liability

Personal Details:

Incident Details:

Specific Circumstances:

Sarah Mitchell purchased an electric pressure cooker, model XPro-5000, from HomeTech Retailers on November 28, 2024. While using the product as directed, the pressure cooker’s lid malfunctioned, causing it to release scalding hot contents despite the safety lock being engaged. Sarah sustained severe burns on her arms and chest.

Parties Involved:

1. Sarah Mitchell (client).

2. HomeTech Retailers (retailer).

3. SmartChef Appliances, Inc. (manufacturer).

Notification:

Sarah reported the incident to SmartChef Appliances’ customer service, which acknowledged receipt and issued a case number.

A product recall for the XPro-5000 model was announced on January 2, 2025, citing a similar defect.

Injury Details:

Type of Injury:

Second-degree burns on both arms and chest.

Emotional distress from the traumatic incident.

Medical Treatment:

Immediate treatment at an urgent care facility, including wound cleaning and dressings.

Ongoing care for burn wounds, including skin ointments and pain management.

Possible future consultation with a dermatologist for scar reduction treatment.

Impact on Work:

Sarah, a freelance graphic designer, has been unable to meet client deadlines due to pain and restricted arm movement. This has resulted in a loss of income and strained client relationships.

Evidence: Available

Product Details:

Purchase receipt from HomeTech Retailers.

The defective pressure cooker, retained as evidence.

Medical Records:

Detailed documentation of burns and treatment.

Prescriptions for pain management and wound care.

Photos:

Pictures of Sarah’s injuries and the defective pressure cooker

Recall Notice:

Evidence of the product recall and acknowledgment of defects by SmartChef Appliances.

Fault Assessment

Party at Fault:

SmartChef Appliances for manufacturing a defective product.

HomeTech Retailers may share liability for selling the defective product without adequate warnings.

Client at Fault: No evidence suggests improper use of the pressure cooker

Additional Information Needed

1. Confirmation of liability insurance coverage for SmartChef Appliances and HomeTech Retailers.

2. Expert analysis of the defective product to confirm the malfunction and design flaw

3. Documentation of similar complaints or lawsuits involving the XPro-5000 model

4. Complete timeline of Sarah’s income loss and proof of her freelance earnings.

Incident Timeline

November 28, 2024: Pressure cooker purchased.

December 15, 2024: Incident occurred, resulting in burns; urgent care visit followed.

December 2024–Ongoing: Treatment for burns and pain management.

January 2, 2025: Recall issued for the XPro-5000 model.

Type Of Incident

Nature: Product liability – defective product causing injury due to design or manufacturing flaw.

Next Steps for Review:

1. Investigate: Secure product recall documentation, similar complaints, and expert product analysis.

2. Calculate Damages: Compile medical costs, lost income, and potential future treatment expenses

3. Pursue Settlement: Engage with the manufacturer and retailer’s insurers to negotiate a settlement.

4. Prepare for Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, file a product liability lawsuit for compensatory and punitive damages.

Incident Timeline

Prepared For: Attorney Case Review.

Prepared By: LawyersNearMe.Ai

Client Name: Sarah Mitchell (+1 (512) 456-7832 )

Think you have a similar case? Let us prepare your personalized case summary today.