Exploding e-cigarettes are causing serious injury

Explosions and other malfunctions of e-cigarette vaping devices have resulted in several product liability lawsuits across the country, including in New York, California and Florida. These vaping devices are sold to consumers without proper quality control and regulation, exposing millions of users to potential harm.

E-cigarettes are battery-powered devices that mimic the experience of traditional smoking. Liquid is heated, usually by a lithium ion battery and released as vapors to the user. Unfortunately, the heating process can also overheat the battery – causing it to explode. Additionally, the casing for vaping devices is often made of low-strength aluminum or plastic, which can shatter and propel toward the user during an explosion.

Injuries from malfunctions of defective vaping devices have included acid burns, tooth loss and serious injury to the mouth, tongue, teeth face and hands, resulting in major surgeries and amputations. Liability lawsuits have been filed against manufacturers of the products, many located in China, as well as importers, distributors and retailers in the United States.

With the vaping trend continuing to gain in popularity, regulating the quality and safety of e-cigarettes will need to be addressed. In the meantime, those who become injured by exploding or malfunctioning e-cigarettes have the right to seek compensation. Given the complex nature of these cases, those affected should seek legal advice and counsel from experienced products liability attorneys.