Consumers Warned to Stop Using Recalled Lights Immediately; One Death Reported
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Good Earth Lighting Inc., based in Mount Prospect, Illinois, have issued a recall of more than 1.2 million rechargeable integrated lights. This urgent recall follows reports of the lights overheating and igniting, posing significant fire and burn hazards. Tragically, one consumer has died, and another was treated for smoke inhalation as a result of a fire caused by the overheating product. In addition, Good Earth Lighting has received nine other reports of lights overheating, including six incidents that resulted in fires and property damage.
Details of the Recall
The recall involves rechargeable lights with model numbers starting with RE1122, RE1145, RE1362, and RE1250. These model numbers can be found on a white sticker on the back of the lights. The affected lights, which use lithium-ion batteries, are designed as alternatives to permanently wired fixtures for use in areas like closets, cupboards, and staircases where installing wired lights can be challenging.
The recalled lights are approximately 12 inches long and were sold in single or double unit packages in various colors, including white, silver, almond, black, and rose gold. They came with a charging cable and were available with or without a remote control and/or power adapter. Manufactured in Cambodia and China, these lights were sold at hardware and home improvement stores nationwide, including Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, Meijer, and Menards, as well as online through platforms like Goodearthlighting.com, Amazon.com, Lowes.com, and QVC from October 2017 through January 2024. The price ranged from about $20 for a single unit to about $35 for a bundle.
Immediate Actions for Consumers
Consumers who have purchased the recalled lights should stop using them immediately and contact Good Earth Lighting to receive a free replacement light of at least equal value to the original purchase price. Good Earth Lighting is offering replacements, including free shipping, at no charge. To facilitate the replacement process, consumers will need to write the date and initial next to the model number on the back of the light and write “Recalled” on the front. They are also required to upload photos to Good Earth Lighting’s recall webpage.
For further assistance, consumers can contact Good Earth Lighting at 800-291-8838 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, email at productrecall@goodearthlighting.com, or visit the recall page on the company’s website.
Incidents and Injuries
The recall follows a report of one fatality and another individual being treated for smoke inhalation due to a fire caused by the overheating lights. Good Earth Lighting has also received nine additional reports of the lights overheating, with six incidents resulting in fires and property damage. These reports highlight the severe risks associated with the continued use of the recalled products.
The Harm and Injury from Faulty Products
Consumers harmed by faulty products like the recalled Good Earth Lighting integrated lights face significant health risks, including burns, smoke inhalation, and other fire-related injuries. Such injuries can lead to substantial medical expenses, lost wages due to time off work, and emotional distress. In the most tragic cases, like the reported fatality, families may suffer the loss of a loved one.
Victims of defective products have the right to seek compensation through a product liability lawsuit. This type of legal action holds manufacturers accountable for the safety of their products and aims to secure damages for those affected by their negligence. The lawsuit process involves several stages, including filing a complaint, discovery, settlement negotiations, and potentially a trial. Each step requires careful legal navigation to ensure that victims’ rights are protected and that they receive fair compensation.
The Lawsuit Process and Importance of Legal Representation
The first step in filing a product liability lawsuit is establishing that the defective product directly caused the injury. This requires gathering evidence such as medical records, proof of purchase, and related communications. An experienced attorney can assist in compiling this evidence and building a strong case.
The legal process typically starts with a consultation with a personal injury attorney who specializes in product liability cases. The attorney will evaluate the case, advise on the best course of action, and file a complaint to initiate the legal process. The discovery phase follows, during which both parties exchange information and gather further evidence. Settlement negotiations may occur at any point during the process, but if a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial.
Having an experienced attorney is crucial in handling a product liability lawsuit. Legal representation ensures that victims’ rights are protected and that they receive fair compensation for their injuries. An attorney can handle all aspects of the case, from gathering evidence and filing paperwork to negotiating with insurers and representing the victim in court.
Potential Damages in a Product Liability Lawsuit
Damages recovered in a product liability lawsuit can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages. These damages aim to compensate the victims for their losses and to hold the responsible parties accountable.