Dangers Posed by Defective Pressure Cookers
Pressure cookers have gained traction in modern kitchens as a convenient and time-saving way to cook healthy meals in just minutes. These popular appliances trap steam beneath the lid, cooking foods at scalding temperatures topping 300 ºF. While its usefulness is widely praised in households across the country, many people are unaware of the inherent dangers pressure cookers can pose.
Defects in product manufacturing, design or insufficient instructions can result in serious injuries to cooker users. Several reports of pressure cooker explosions have made headlines both in the U.S. and abroad. One mother of three allegedly suffered horrendous third-degree burns across her chest and arms when the lid of her instant pot flew off before the pressure valve was released, spraying her with scalding soup.
Injuries caused by pressure cooker explosions and spills
Serious burn injuries have prompted a wave of lawsuits against pressure cooker manufacturers, alleging the appliances suffer from significant defects. Many pressure cooker explosions have led to serious injuries, including:
- 2nd and 3rd degree burns requiring skin grafts
- Skin discoloration
- Lacerations
- Eye injuries
- Electrocution
- Infection
- Concussions
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
Failures tied to design or manufacturing defects
There are several factors that can cause a pressure cooker to malfunction or fail, leading to serious injuries. Improper assembly, the use of shoddy materials, or defective designs or manufacture can all cause a pressure cooker’s safety devices to fail. Recent litigation has cited to the following defects and flaws in pressure cookers:
- Faulty pot seals and gaskets
- Poor steam venting design
- Defective steam release valves
- Defects in safety lid locks
Several companies have recalled their pressure cookers or similar devices due to dangerous defects. Breville recalled more than 35,000 of their Fast Slow Cookers in 2015 because of a faulty design that allowed built-up pressure to suddenly release, posing risk of steam burns. Just last year, Insta Pot recalled its Gem 65 multicooker because of overheating and fire hazard concerns.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, other brands tied to malfunctions and injuries include the Tristar Power Pressure Cooker XL, Double Insight Instant Pot Pressure Cookers, Insta Pot Smart 60 and the Manttra Pressure Cookers.
Free lawsuit evaluation with Chaffin Luhana
We are dedicated to protecting consumers who are injured by defective products. If a household appliance like a pressure cooker is inherently dangerous for its intended purpose, it should not be on the market. If you or a family member suffered harm because of a pressure cooker explosion or malfunction, you may a viable legal claim for damages.
Pursuing a pressure cooker lawsuit can hold negligent parties accountable while seeking much needed compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost income, pain, suffering and other losses. Call Chaffin Luhana today to arrange a free consultation with our experienced nationwide injury lawyers.
We advance all legal fees, and you owe us nothing unless we prevail in your case!