In concurrence with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, General Electric has announced the recall of 181,000 front-load washing machines because of potential fire and shock hazards.
CNN Money reports that the dangerous machines have defective wires that may catch fire. While no reported injuries have been connected to the faulty equipment, there have been seven incidents of minor smoke damage from flames escaping the devices.
Consumers are being asked to immediately stop use of the recalled washing machines, unplug them from electrical outlets, and get in touch with GE for a free repair. Washing machines included in the recall begin with model number WBVH5 and were sold throughout the United States from December 2006 to May 2010. Consumers can reach GE at 1-888-345-4124 to find out if their washing machine is included in the recall.
American Burn Association statistics reveal that approximately 3,500 people die each year due to residential fires in the United States. In addition, about 60,000 individuals nationwide require medical attention and care at burn centers to help treat severe burn injuries. Defective and poorly designed products are sometimes responsible for fires, burns and shock injuries. As consumers, we trust that the products we purchase are safe for use and free of any defect that would inflict harm. However, not every product manufacturer upholds this trust.
If a product malfunctions and causes an individual to sustain a burn injury, shock injury, or any other kind of personal injury, he or she may be able to hold the manufacturer legally responsible for pain and suffering, medical bills, and other damages associated with the injury. The knowledgeable California product injury lawyers at Panish Shea & Boyle understand the many challenges an injury victim may face after being injured by a defective product. Call us today at 877-800-1700 for a free consultation and to find out more about how we can protect your rights.
