Through the firm's investigation and litigation efforts, Wallace Meyaski successfully negotiated a seven-figure settlement on behalf of an injured client against a retail seller of a defective lithium ion battery used in vaping devices/e-cigarettes. Lithium ion batteries can be prone to thermal runaway, a process that can lead to fires and explosions if the battery's internal components are defective. A single battery malfunction can have severe consequences, endangering lives and causing significant, long-term personal injuries. Personal injury claims pursued under Louisiana’s Products Liability Act, La. R.S. 9:2800.51 et seq. ("LPLA”), can be incredibly challenging as the laws afford remedies in very limited circumstances. The LPLA establishes the exclusive legal theories for recovering damages caused by unreasonably dangerous products. Responsible parties may be liable for injuries caused by defects in construction, design, inadequate warnings, or breach of express warranty. Each specific claim should be considered under its own facts. To do so, injured parties should consult immediately with experienced legal counsel on such matters. When timely action is taken, injured parties can hold accountable manufacturers, distributors, and, in some cases, sellers who have failed to properly perform their obligations.
For more information on Wallace Meyaski’s products liability and personal injury practice, including how we can help injured plaintiffs hold manufacturers, distributors, and/or sellers accountable under Louisiana’s products liability laws, please contact us here.
