New Repair Kit Issued After Additional Injury Reports
The Vitamix Corporation has expanded its recall of Ascent Series and Venturist Series 8-ounce and 20-ounce blending containers and blade bases due to a significant laceration hazard. This recall now includes approximately 569,000 units in the United States and 121,950 units in Canada. The expansion follows the initial recall in August 2018, which affected 105,000 units.
The issue at hand is that the containers can separate from the blade base during use, exposing the sharp blades and posing a serious risk of injury to consumers. Vitamix has received 27 reports of lacerations, 11 of which were reported during the initial recall. In light of these incidents, Vitamix is providing a repair kit that includes a protective plastic shroud to cover the blade base and additional instructional labels to ensure safe use.
Details of the Recall
The recalled products include all Ascent and Venturist Series 8-ounce and 20-ounce blending containers and blade bases. These components were included with various Vitamix blenders such as the Venturist V1200, Ascent A2300, Ascent A2500, Ascent A3300, and Ascent A3500 models. They were also sold separately, as sets, or in bundles in multiple configurations. The Vitamix logo is prominently displayed on the blending containers.
These products were available for purchase from April 2017 through May 2024 at major retailers including Costco, Best Buy, Crate & Barrel, Macy’s, Target, Williams Sonoma, Walmart, and various specialty stores. They were also sold online through Vitamix.com, Amazon.com, and QVC.com. The prices for these blenders and blending containers ranged from $30 to $990.
Remedy and Consumer Action
All consumers who own the recalled 8-ounce and 20-ounce blending containers and blade bases, including those who participated in the 2018 recall, should stop using these products immediately. Vitamix is offering a repair kit that includes a protective plastic shroud to be attached over the blade base and additional instructional labels. Consumers can contact Vitamix toll-free at 855-215-5178 from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday, or email at service@vitamix.com to receive the repair kit. More information can be found on Vitamix’s website under the “Product Recalls” section.
Impact and Injuries
The recalled blending containers and blade bases have caused significant injuries to users. With 27 reported cases of lacerations, consumers have experienced cuts and other injuries from accidental contact with exposed blades. These incidents highlight the critical need for effective safety measures in kitchen appliances to prevent such injuries.
Legal Recourse for Victims
Individuals harmed by these defective products have the right to seek compensation through a product liability lawsuit. Victims can file a lawsuit to recover damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other related costs. It is crucial for victims to consult with an attorney experienced in product liability cases to navigate the complexities of the legal process and ensure their rights are protected.
The Lawsuit Process
Filing a lawsuit involves several steps, including gathering evidence, filing a complaint, and engaging in the discovery process where both parties exchange information. An attorney can help build a strong case by collecting medical records, eyewitness testimonies, and expert opinions. They will also handle negotiations with the manufacturer’s legal team to seek a fair settlement or take the case to trial if necessary.
Why Legal Representation is Essential
Having an attorney is vital in a product liability case because manufacturers often have substantial legal resources at their disposal. An experienced lawyer will advocate on behalf of the victim, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. Legal representation also provides peace of mind, allowing victims to focus on recovery while their attorney handles the legal intricacies.
Potential Damages in a Product Liability Lawsuit
Victims of product defects like the recalled Vitamix blending containers can recover various damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Covering hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and ongoing medical treatment.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time away from work due to injury.
- Pain and Suffering: Monetary compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, courts may award punitive damages to punish the manufacturer and deter future misconduct.
