Cleveland e-cigarette accident lawyers are currently investigating electronic cigarettes as it is being reported that the batteries in these devices are overheating and exploding during regular use, along with explosions during charging, causing severe burns to users and property damage. An E-Cigarette injury can result in serious injuries and damages to the person and their immediate environment.
If you or a loved one have been injured by an exploding E-Cigarette, contact our product liability lawyers today to help you obtain the monetary compensation you are entitled to!
What are E-Cigarettes?
E-Cigarettes, also called “vapes,” are electronic nicotine delivery systems, powered by a battery. The device works when a heating element heats up an aerosol cartridge, releasing vapor that is then inhaled. These electronic cigarettes are made up of four parts:
- Cartridge, holding liquid
- Heating element (atomizer)
- Power source (battery)
- Mouthpiece used to inhale
People inhale the aerosol, which contains nicotine, flavorings and other chemicals. E-cigarettes can look like tobacco cigarettes, cigars, pipes, pens, etc. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there are over 460 brands of e-cigarettes on the market.
E-Cigarettes have become popular amongst both teens and adults. “E-cigs” are popular because they are perceived as a healthier alternative to smoking since they allow someone to ingest nicotine without tobacco. The younger generation continues to increase their use of e-cigarettes because of its low cost, fun flavors and their ability to purchase them at a younger age. 11.3 percent of high school students reported using e-cigarettes within the past 30 days. In adults, 3.7 percent use e-cigarettes regularly. If someone suffered injuries because of a faulty E-cig, our lawyers could help them through the Cleveland claims process.
E-Cigarettes Exploding
E-cigarettes explode for a variety of reasons, including when they are being charged or carried in a pocket. Many of the devices have lithium-ion batteries that can malfunction in extreme temperatures, either below 50 or above 115 degrees Fahrenheit. Other reasons for exploding include:
- Using the wrong battery charger
- Spare battery comes in contact with something metal (such as coins in a pocket)
- Lack of industry standards and testing
Possible risks of an e-cigarette exploding while near an individual includes:
- Hand, face, or eye injuries
- 2nd or 3rd-degree burns
- These could require skin grafts or surgery
- Teeth getting knocked out
- Holes in the tongue or throat
- House or car catching on fire/burning
- Other property damage
Currently, there are no FDA regulations on batteries for e-cigarettes. This means that e-cigarettes are not required to include a warning that a battery could explode. There are no product standards for these devices. However, in May of 2016, the FDA finally announced a new authority to ban E-cigs to minors and require a more extensive approval. If someone’s vape caused an injury, our e-cigarette explosion lawyers in Cleveland could help them file a claim for damages.
Contact Our Cleveland E-Cigarette Accident Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one suffered physical or property damages from an e-cigarette exploding, you could be entitled to compensation for your losses. Call today or fill out an online form for a free consultation. Our Cleveland e-cigarette accident lawyers are ready to hear your case and advise you on your next steps. We can also arrange weekend and evening appointments, and we can come to you.
Cleveland, Ohio 44113