Lawsuits against Insignia® air fryers allege serious injuries and fires, and the company has issued a nationwide recall of certain models
Best Buy, a leading electronics retailer, has issued a recall for its Insignia® Air Fryers and Air Fryer Ovens due to concerns regarding fire, burn, and laceration hazards. The recall, initiated on March 14, 2024, impacts approximately 187,400 units in the United States, with an additional 99,900 units sold in Canada.
The hazard stems from the potential for the air fryers to overheat, leading to the melting or breaking of handles, thereby posing fire and burn risks. Additionally, the air fryer ovens may overheat, with the glass on the door prone to shattering, posing additional fire, burn, and laceration hazards.
The recall involves various models of Insignia Air Fryers and Air Fryer Ovens, identifiable by model numbers NS-AF34D2, NS-AF5DSS2, NS-AF5MSS2, NS-AF8DBD2, NS-AF10DBK2, and NS-AF10DSS2. These products feature the brand name INSIGNIA prominently displayed on the top or front of each unit, with a product rating label located on the underside specifying the brand and model number. The air fryers and air fryer ovens come in capacities ranging from about 3.4 to 10 quarts, with bodies constructed from plastic or a combination of plastic and stainless steel, available in black and stainless steel finishes.
Consumers who have purchased these recalled products are urged to cease their usage immediately and follow instructions provided by Best Buy for submitting photos of the affected unit(s), along with the model number and purchase receipt. Upon completion of the process, consumers can expect to receive a refund in the form of either a refund check or a Best Buy store credit, equivalent to the amount indicated on the purchase receipt. For instances where a receipt is unavailable, consumers will receive compensation based on the average sales price for the respective model.
Best Buy advises consumers against returning the recalled air fryers or air fryer ovens to their stores, as the company has already contacted known purchasers directly. To facilitate the refund process, consumers are directed to visit a designated online platform and follow the outlined procedures.
In response to reported incidents, which include 24 instances of overheating, melting, or glass shattering, including six cases of air fryers catching on fire, Best Buy has taken proactive measures to address safety concerns. Fortunately, no injuries or property damage have been reported thus far.
However, for individuals who may have suffered harm or injury as a result of these defective products, pursuing legal recourse may be necessary to seek compensation for damages incurred. A product liability lawsuit may be warranted in such cases, wherein the plaintiff must demonstrate that the product was defective or unreasonably dangerous, that the defect caused their injury, and that they suffered damages as a result.
The lawsuit process involves multiple stages, including investigation, pleadings, discovery, settlement negotiations, and potentially trial proceedings. Throughout each phase, the guidance and representation of a skilled attorney are invaluable. An attorney can navigate the complexities of the legal system, gather evidence to substantiate the claim, engage in negotiations with the defendant, and advocate for fair compensation on behalf of the plaintiff.
Damages that may be recoverable in a product liability lawsuit include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages in cases involving egregious misconduct or negligence on the part of the defendant. By pursuing legal action, victims of product-related injuries can seek justice and hold accountable those responsible for their harm.