Product Defects That Lead to Fires and Explosions

Product defects are a leading cause of fires and explosions in homes, vehicles, and workplaces. While fires can start from many sources, defective products are often to blame when they ignite unexpectedly or fail to operate safely. At Conley, Griggs & Partin, LLP, we represent individuals and families harmed by defective products that cause devastating fires and explosions. When manufacturers fail to ensure their products are safe, they can and should be held accountable through product liability lawsuits.

How Defective Products Cause Fires and Explosions

Some of the most common defective products involved in fire-related injuries include space heaters, lithium-ion batteries, gas grills, and household appliances. Each of these products can become dangerous if they are designed poorly, made with substandard materials, or lack the proper warnings and instructions.

• Space Heaters: These are a common source of residential fires. A poorly designed space heater can overheat, spark, or fail to shut off automatically when tipped over. These defects can lead to house fires that spread quickly, causing severe burns or fatalities. Space heaters that do not meet safety standards or include necessary safety features pose an unreasonable risk to users.
• Lithium-Ion Batteries: Found in products like smartphones, laptops, e-bikes, and power tools, these batteries are known to catch fire or explode when they overheat, are punctured, or suffer from faulty manufacturing. In many cases, poorly made or counterfeit batteries are to blame. Fires resulting from defective lithium-ion batteries can cause serious burns, property damage, and even death.
• Gas Grills: A popular backyard staple, gas grills can be extremely dangerous if they have defective gas regulators, valves, or connectors. Gas leaks and propane explosions frequently occur when a grill is improperly manufactured or lacks adequate safety instructions. Explosions and flash fires from faulty grills can lead to severe injuries, including burns and blast injuries.
• Household Appliances: Everyday appliances such as dryers, refrigerators, dishwashers, and toasters can also pose a serious fire hazard. Electrical malfunctions, faulty wiring, and overheating components can lead to appliance fires. If a defect causes an appliance to catch fire, the consequences can be catastrophic.

When Product Defects Lead to Injury or Death

Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers have a legal duty to ensure the products they sell are safe for consumers. If a product is defective and causes a fire or explosion that results in injury or death, victims and their families may have the right to pursue a personal injury or wrongful death claim.

Product liability cases typically fall into one of three categories:

• Design Defects: Flaws in the product’s design make it inherently dangerous, even if manufactured correctly.
• Manufacturing Defects: Mistakes during the manufacturing process lead to an unsafe product, such as the use of poor-quality materials.
• Failure to Warn: Inadequate instructions or warnings about a product’s risks can result in improper use and accidents.

How We Can Help

At Conley, Griggs & Partin, LLP, we have the experience and resources to thoroughly investigate fires and explosions linked to defective products. Our team works with industry experts to determine the cause of the incident and identify all liable parties. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries or loss because of a defective product, we are here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Contact our Atlanta office today to learn more about your legal options after a fire or explosion caused by a defective product.