Exploding E-Cigarettes Result in Multiple Lawsuits

Billed as a safer, healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes, e-cigarettes  and vaping have become enormously popular. It’s estimated that approximately 2.5 million people in the U.S. use these devices.

However, e-cigarettes can come with their own set of risks. In recent months, people all over the country have suffered second and third degree burns as a result of  exploding e-cigarettes. In January, a truck driver from Indiana crashed his big rig when his vape device exploded in his face. In February, a man in Kentucky suffered severe burns to his leg when his e-cigarette exploded in his pocket. A few weeks later, a woman in Florida escaped her rental car before an exploded e-cigarette engulfed the vehicle in flames.

How does this happen?

E-cigarettes and vaping devices are powered by a lithium-ion battery that heats a coil, thereby turning the liquid solution into vapor. If the lithium ion battery overheats, it can become flammable or even explode. The battery can  overheat if it is over-charged, punctured, or exposed to high heat. Sometimes the battery may short-circuit, or have an internal cell failure that will cause it to become unstable as well.

How can you prevent this?

Investigators have not identified a singular cause of these types of explosions, and it appears that a variety of factors can cause the batteries to become hot and combustible. But, there are a few things e-cig users can do to reduce the chance of overheating their devices’ batteries. For instance, never leave an e-cig plugged into a car charger or other power source for extended periods of time. And, be sure you’re using the correct designated charger for your device – they are not supposed to be used with “universal” USB chargers. If you see liquid leaking from the device or notice a strange smell (like nail polish, or other harsh chemical odor) that may be a warning that the battery has been damaged and may be dangerous.

Victims of e-cigarette explosion burns have filed suit against product manufacturers. If you have suffered a burn or explosion injury from a vaping device or or e-cigarette, you may be able to collect monetary damages for lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering. Our personal injury lawyers will review the details of your case at no charge, and we will never collect a fee unless we win for you. For a free consultation with a product liability lawyer at Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys, call our office or fill out our email form.