BISSELL Recalls More Than 3 Million Steam Shot Handheld Steam Cleaners Due to Burn Hazard

Understanding the Risks and Legal Recourse for Injuries Caused by Defective Products

BISSELL Homecare Inc. has announced a recall of over 3 million units of its Steam Shot Handheld Steam Cleaners, following reports that the devices can expel hot water or steam onto users, posing a significant burn hazard. The recall affects about 3.2 million units in the United States and approximately 355,000 units sold in Canada. This recall involves multiple models within the series 39N7 and 2994, available in various colors including green, pink, blue, orange, white, black, purple, and red. The model numbers can be found on the product rating label located on the bottom of the unit.

The Danger of Steam Cleaner Burn Hazards

The potential for hot water or steam to escape from the BISSELL Steam Shot Handheld Steam Cleaners presents a severe risk of burns. Users may be burned while the device is heating or during its operation. BISSELL has received 183 reports of hot water or steam escaping from the product, including 157 incidents resulting in minor burn injuries. Such injuries can cause significant pain, potential scarring, and require medical treatment, especially if the burns are severe.

Burn injuries can range from first-degree burns, which affect the outer layer of skin, to more severe second and third-degree burns that penetrate deeper layers and require extensive medical care. The escape of hot water or steam from these devices can cause immediate and painful injuries, potentially leading to lasting physical and emotional trauma.

Recall and Remedy

Consumers who own the affected steam cleaners should immediately stop using the devices and contact BISSELL for a remedy. BISSELL is offering either a $60 credit towards a purchase on BISSELL.com or a $40 refund for each recalled steam cleaner. To participate in the recall, consumers need to register on the BISSELL website and follow instructions on how to cut the cord of the steam cleaner, take a photo showing the model number and the cut cord, and upload it to the provided site.

The steam cleaners were sold at major retailers including Target and Walmart, as well as online platforms like Amazon and HSN, from August 2008 through May 2024, with prices ranging from $35 to $40, or $70 for a two-pack.

Legal Recourse for Injured Consumers

Victims of burn injuries caused by the defective BISSELL Steam Shot Handheld Steam Cleaners have the right to seek compensation through a product liability lawsuit. Such legal action holds manufacturers accountable for the safety of their products and provides a means for victims to recover damages for their injuries.

The first step in pursuing a lawsuit is to establish that the defective product caused the injury. This involves gathering evidence such as medical records, proof of purchase, and documentation of the incident. An experienced attorney can assist in compiling this evidence and building a strong case.

The Legal Process and Importance of an Attorney

Filing a product liability lawsuit involves several stages, starting with an initial consultation with a personal injury attorney who specializes in product liability. The attorney will evaluate the case, provide legal advice, and file the necessary paperwork to initiate the lawsuit. During the discovery phase, both parties exchange information and gather further evidence to support their claims.

Having legal representation is crucial in navigating the complexities of a product liability lawsuit. An attorney will handle all legal procedures, negotiate with the manufacturer’s insurance company, and represent the victim in court if necessary. This ensures that the victim’s rights are protected and that they receive fair compensation for their injuries.

Types of Damages Recoverable

In a product liability lawsuit, victims can seek various types of damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for current and future medical treatment related to the burn injuries.
• Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to the inability to work while recovering.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury.
• Punitive Damages: In some cases, courts may award punitive damages to punish the manufacturer for egregious misconduct.