Defective Snowblowers Recalled Due to Amputation Hazard

On February 17, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) posted a notice regarding the decision by the Toro Company to recall thousands of its Toro Max Snowthrowers due to an amputation hazard. The product has been deemed hazardous because the auger can fail to disengage when the control lever is released. The company received five reports from customers regarding the failure of the auger to disengage properly.

Although no injuries have been reported to date, consumers who use the product face serious amputation risk to their fingers or hands. Any consumers who purchased a 2021 Toro Power Max 826 OHAE Snowthrower, model number 37802, should return it immediately to an authorized Toro dealer. These models have been sold at Home Depot, Ace Hardware, and other authorized Toro dealers nationwide.

Do All Defective Products Appear on the List of Recalls?

The CPSC continually updates its list of recalled products to help the public avoid injury by defective products. However, all defective products do not appear on the CPSC’s list of recalls. As a result, many innocent people suffer injuries each year due to defective products that remain on the market or in use at home or in the workplace. In some cases, the injuries may be fatal. Galfand Berger LLP has helped numerous clients recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering in products liability cases against manufacturers and dealers.

What Types of Injuries are Caused by Defective Products?

Defective products cause many types of injuries, including the following:

• Amputations
• Burns
• Electric shock
• Fractures and broken bones
• Head injuries

Defective automobile components, such as seat belts or tires, can cause serious accidents resulting in multiple types of injuries, including whiplash, spinal cord damage, and other disabling conditions. In the workplace, heavy machinery is often used without adequate safety guards, causing disabling or fatal accidents.

How can I Avoid Injury by a Defective Product?

To avoid injury by a defective product, always follow CPSC guidance regarding any products that have been recalled. Consumers should carefully read the instruction manual and follow safety guidelines for any power tool, appliance, or product they purchase. At work, employers should inspect tools and equipment before use and provide safety training for employees on safety procedures for proper use.

Philadelphia Products Liability Lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP Represent Clients Injured by Defective Products

Despite precautions, defective products continue to cause accidents in the home and in the workplace. If you suffered a serious injury, do not assume that the accident was purely by chance. It is in your best interest to contact a qualified Philadelphia products liability lawyer at Galfand Berger LLP who can determine whether the accident was caused by a defective product. Located in Philadelphia, Bethlehem, Lancaster, and Reading, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey, including Allentown and Harrisburg. Call 800-222-8792 or contact us online to arrange a free consultation.