Vape Batteries and E-Cigarette Explosions:
Who is responsible for injuries or deaths caused by an “Industry-Wide” problem?
There has been plenty of debate on the health and safety effects of “vaping”, but the most dangerous aspect of electronic cigarettes is likely the potentially explosive lithium-ion batteries used to power them.
Since 2009, there have been over 200 reported incidents of fires and explosions, and at least one death, caused by exploding e-cigarettes in the U.S. As more products enter the market, the number of these explosions will continue to rise, as will the number of injuries and deaths.
If you or a loved one have been injured by an exploding e-cigarette, you may be entitled to compensation from the manufacturer or seller of the device. Our law firm has represented individuals that have suffered injuries from an exploding battery and we know how to pursue compensation.
What is an E-Cigarette?
An “electronic cigarette” refers to several different types of devices within a larger class. These devices come in varying shapes and sizes and are sometimes called e-cigs, personal vaporizers (VPs), mods, electronic nicotine deliver systems (ENDS), and vape pens. They are powered by lithium-ion batteries which produce a heated vapor that looks like smoke.
Risk of Injury Due to Explosion of Lithium-ion Batteries in E-Cigs is Exceedingly Dangerous
In 2016, the U.S. Fire Administration issued a report concluding that lithium-ion batteries should not be used in e-cigarettes due to the inherent risks of injuries due to explosion and fire. In reaching this conclusion, the agency examined 195 reported cases of e-cigarette battery explosions.
“The e-cigarette/lithium-ion battery combination presents a new and unique hazard to consumers. No other consumer product places a battery with a known explosion hazard such as this in close proximity to the human body. It is this intimate contact between the body and the battery that is most responsible for the severity of the injuries that have been seen.”
(McKenna, Lawrence. “Electronic Cigarette Fires and Explosions in the United States 2009-2016.” National Fire Data Center, U.S. Fire Administration.)
Who is Responsible if a Vape Pen Explodes?
In Texas, the manufacturer is generally responsible for the safety of its products. Only when the manufacturer is insolvent or beyond the reach of Texas courts can the sellers be held liable. Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code Sec. 82.003 (“Liability of Nonmanufacturing Sellers”).
Because most e-cigarettes and lithium-ion batteries are produced in China, it is often the vape shop or other retailer that sold the defective product who is responsible for the damages. As such, consumers should always purchase from reputable retailers who are more likely to be financially solvent and/or have insurance to cover the damages.
Under Texas law, any party who participated in the design, manufacture, or marketing of a defective product may be held responsible for damages. In the case of e-cigarettes, these products could be considered fundamentally defective because almost every product currently on the market requires the use of a lithium-ion battery, which is known to be potentially deadly.
Many of the risks associated with lithium-ion battery explosions occur due to improper handling of the devices. Because so little information is provided to consumers about proper handling, those responsible for the marketing of the devices may still be liable for any damages as a result of injuries or death.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed by an exploding e-cigarette, it is important that you consult with a qualified attorney as soon as possible who can give you advice specific to your case. Our team of experienced attorneys is here to help.
