Despite the reports of fires making the news, hoverboards are still one of the most popular toys this holiday season. If you are purchasing one for your child, you need to know about the possible hazards.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPS) released a statement on December 16 saying that they are actively investigating the cause of hoverboard fires. Some brands catch fire while being ridden while others catch fire while being charged. The CPS is currently considering the battery packs and how compatible the boards are with chargers.
Fire is not the only problem, however. The CPS also has reports of dozens of emergency room visits by people who have fallen off the hoverboard. Some people walked away with bruises and cuts, but others suffered brain injuries, broken bones and injuries to internal organs.
Negligent manufacturers and suppliers of defective products such as hoverboards need to be held accountable for the injuries they cause. Our attorneys have years of experience fighting for victims of defective products.
We encourage you to read the following tips from the CPS about hoverboard usage, and hope you and your family have a safe, healthy holiday:
- Be careful when charging the hoverboard. Do not do it overnight or when you are not home. Also, keep it away from other objects while it is charging.
- Do not charge the hoverboard and then wrap it.
- The hoverboard should be allowed to cool after use. Do not charge it until it has cooled.
- If you buy a hoverboard, do so from a reputable retailer and ensure the product is not counterfeit.
You can learn more about product safety from the CPS website. Speak with us if you suffer injuries from any dangerous product, and we will explain your rights and options.