Lithium-ion batteries are a type of rechargeable battery that has become increasingly popular over the years. These types of batteries can be found in laptops, smartphones, toys, and other chargeable devices.  They are very lightweight and can hold a charge better than similar types of batteries. Lately, however, there have been lithium-ion battery accidents in the news. So, what does this mean for your cell phone and your safety?

What Types of Devices Are Lithium-Ion Batteries Found In

Lithium-ion batteries are most likely found in many devices in your home or even in the bags you take with you every day. They are oftentimes in technology such as laptops, cell phones, PDAs, iPods, and even E-Cigarettes. However, they can also be found in some toys such as popular Christmas gifts, including, hoverboards and remote control cars. Therefore, everyone from children to adults may come into contact with these rechargeable batteries.

Dangers of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion battery explosions put consumers at risk for serious injuries while using the product, standing close by, or in the vicinity of any resulting fire. These injuries may include:

• Pain
• Severe burns
• Hearing and/or vision loss
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Loss of teeth and/or tongue
• Burned throat and esophagus
• Long term or permanent disability
• Death

Why Do Lithium-Ion Batteries Explode?

Lithium-ion battery explosions are often the result of a domino effect. A battery can become overheated and battery modules will produce more and more heat which leads to an explosion. These batteries may also short circuit and burst if they are installed incorrectly or due to a mechanical problem after being dropped or damaged. Batteries can also fail if they are charged for too long. However, since many batteries have preventions in place to avoid this, overcharging is more often the result of a manufacturing defect rather than keeping your phone on the battery charger overnight.

Lithium-Ion Battery Recalls and Liability

Because of the severe and debilitating injuries, lithium-ion batteries have caused with explosions, many victims have come forward to accuse the manufacturer of the devices that contain these batteries of negligence and putting their lives at risk. Many devices have been recalled and even the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 has been banned from airplanes due to its risk of overheating and exploding. Lithium battery explosions can result in a product liability case in which the manufacturer of the damaged device is held liable. If you have been injured as a result of using a device or product with a lithium-ion battery, you may be eligible for a lithium-ion battery lawsuit and potentially receive compensation.

What to Do If You Are Injured from a Lithium-Ion Battery Explosion

If you experience a lithium-ion battery explosion, make sure everyone is safe and unharmed. If the explosion was extensive, call 911. Get your injuries checked by medical professionals. Record everything from where the device was located, if it was charging, the surface it was on, and any injuries or home damage the explosion may have caused. Next, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to investigate your lithium-ion battery accident.

Brindisi, Murad, Brindisi and Pearlman have experience representing victims in all kinds of product liability cases and can help you too if you have a lithium-ion battery case. We are armed with the knowledge and drive to fight for you. Contact our office for free legal advice today.

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Tags: Products Liability