Fisher-Price Snuga Swing Suffocation Wrongful Death Lawsuit Lawyers

Understanding the Risks, Legal Options, and How Parker Waichman LLP Can Help Families Seek Justice

Fisher-Price and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) have recalled over 2 million Snuga Swings following reports of five infant deaths. The recall highlights significant risks associated with using the swings for purposes beyond their design, particularly infant sleep. Despite warnings and guidelines, tragedies have occurred when babies were left unrestrained or additional bedding materials were placed in the swings. The swings, sold nationwide at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Amazon between 2010 and 2024, are no longer deemed safe under certain conditions. Fisher-Price urges parents to stop using the headrest and body support inserts immediately and emphasizes that these swings should never be used for sleep. Tragically, these preventable deaths have drawn attention to the broader issue of unsafe inclined infant products. Even when used as intended, such products can pose significant risks when proper precautions aren't followed.

How This Product Has Harmed Families

The design flaws in the Fisher-Price Snuga Swing have led to heartbreaking outcomes for several families. Between 2012 and 2022, five infants—ranging from 1 to 3 months old—died due to suffocation risks linked to the swing. Common factors in these cases included unrestrained infants and the use of bedding materials that further compromised the product's safety. The risk stems primarily from the swing’s inclined design. When infants sleep in a semi-reclined position, their head can tilt forward, restricting airflow and leading to suffocation. This risk is amplified by additional materials like pillows or blankets, which further obstruct the infant's breathing. The impact of these incidents extends beyond physical harm. Families face unimaginable grief, financial strain, and lasting emotional trauma. Medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost wages are only part of the burden. These tragedies also leave parents grappling with feelings of guilt and helplessness, despite having trusted a well-known brand to provide a safe product for their child.

Filing a Lawsuit for Damages

Families affected by the Snuga Swing recall may have grounds to file a product liability lawsuit against Fisher-Price. These claims aim to hold manufacturers accountable for the harm caused by their products and provide financial compensation to victims.

Legal Grounds for a Lawsuit

A product liability lawsuit typically hinges on three factors:

1. Defective Design: The swing’s inclined design increases the risk of suffocation, making it inherently dangerous for infants.
2. Manufacturing Defects: If the product deviates from its intended design due to errors during production, it could result in additional risks.
3. Failure to Warn: Fisher-Price and other parties may be liable if they failed to adequately warn consumers of the risks associated with improper use.

The Lawsuit Process

The legal process for a product liability claim involves several steps:

• Investigation: Attorneys gather evidence, including product manuals, recall notices, medical records, and expert testimony, to establish liability.
• Filing the Claim: A formal complaint is filed against the manufacturer or other responsible parties.
• Discovery: Both sides exchange evidence and build their cases.
• Negotiation or Trial: Many cases are resolved through settlements, but some proceed to trial if a fair agreement cannot be reached.

Having an experienced attorney is crucial during this process. From navigating the legal system to negotiating with corporate legal teams, a lawyer ensures that victims' voices are heard and their rights are protected.

Damages Recoverable in a Product Liability Case

Victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: Costs for emergency care, hospital stays, and other related medical treatments.
• Funeral and Burial Costs: Financial relief for families facing the heartbreaking loss of a child.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the emotional distress and trauma endured by the family.
• Loss of Future Earnings: If the incident impacts the family’s financial stability due to lost income or career disruptions.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, courts may award punitive damages to penalize the manufacturer and deter similar behavior.

Why Families Need an Attorney

Product liability cases against large corporations are complex and often met with strong resistance from defense teams. An experienced attorney brings valuable knowledge and resources to the table, ensuring that victims receive the justice they deserve. Attorneys handle every aspect of the case, from gathering evidence and consulting experts to negotiating settlements or representing clients at trial. Their role is not just about legal representation; they provide families with the support and advocacy they need during an incredibly challenging time.