CPSC Issues Urgent Warning to Stop Using Floatwheel Models Due to Severe Fall and Crash Hazards
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a stern warning to consumers regarding the use of Floatwheel self-balancing electric skateboards. Due to significant safety concerns, consumers are urged to immediately cease using all Floatwheel models, including the Floatwheel adv and Floatwheel adv pro. These products, manufactured by Floatwheel in China, pose severe fall and crash hazards that could lead to life-threatening injuries.
Risks and Manufacturer Non-Compliance
The Floatwheel self-balancing electric skateboards have been identified as dangerous due to their potential to stop suddenly or lose balance, which can eject riders, leading to falls and crashes. The CPSC has received multiple reports through social media of incidents where riders have been thrown off the skateboards, sustaining injuries. However, the full extent of these incidents remains unknown because Floatwheel has refused to cooperate with the CPSC’s investigation. This lack of cooperation has prevented the CPSC from fully assessing the number of injuries or fatalities associated with the product.
Despite the CPSC’s request, Floatwheel has declined to initiate a recall or provide necessary information about the product’s safety. The company’s non-compliance has led to continued sales of these hazardous skateboards, with the products still being available on a Russian website at prices ranging from $1,600 to $1,800. The CPSC has advised that imports of Floatwheel skateboards may face enforcement actions at U.S. ports to prevent their entry into the country.
Product Description and CPSC Recommendations
Floatwheel self-balancing electric skateboards are characterized by a single wheel located in the middle of the board, with front and rear footpads where the rider stands astride the wheel. The Floatwheel logo, a circle with three wavy lines, is visible on the side of the skateboard. These models have been sold since around 2020, raising concerns about the number of potentially dangerous units in circulation.
The CPSC strongly advises consumers to refrain from purchasing the Floatwheel skateboard. If you already own one, it is crucial to stop using it immediately. Additionally, consumers are urged not to resell or donate the product, as this could place others at risk. Instead, the recommended action is to properly dispose of the skateboard to prevent further injuries.
Injuries and Legal Recourse for Victims
The dangers associated with Floatwheel self-balancing electric skateboards can lead to severe injuries. Sudden stops or loss of balance can cause riders to be thrown off, resulting in falls that may cause broken bones, head injuries, and other significant trauma. These incidents highlight the critical need for immediate action to protect consumers from harm.
Victims who have suffered injuries due to the Floatwheel skateboard may have grounds to file a product liability lawsuit. This type of lawsuit seeks compensation for injuries and damages caused by defective products and the negligence of the manufacturer. The legal process begins with consulting an attorney who is well-versed in product liability cases. The attorney will assess the case, gather evidence, and build a robust argument to hold the manufacturer accountable.
Filing a Lawsuit and the Role of an Attorney
Filing a product liability lawsuit involves several stages, each requiring thorough preparation and legal knowledge. Initially, the attorney will collect all relevant evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and any reports of similar incidents. This evidence is crucial in demonstrating the product’s defect and the manufacturer’s negligence.
The attorney will then draft and file the lawsuit, ensuring all procedural requirements are met. Throughout the negotiation phase, the attorney will advocate for a fair settlement, aiming to resolve the matter without a trial. However, if a settlement cannot be reached, the case will proceed to court, where the attorney will present the evidence and argue the case before a judge and jury.
Having a skilled attorney is essential in navigating the complexities of the legal process. An attorney’s expertise ensures that the victim’s rights are protected and increases the likelihood of a favorable outcome. Legal representation is particularly important in product liability cases, where manufacturers often have substantial resources to defend against claims.
Potential Damages in a Product Liability Lawsuit
Victims of injuries caused by defective products like the Floatwheel skateboard can seek various types of compensation. Compensatory damages include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. These damages aim to restore the victim’s financial stability and address the physical and emotional impact of the injury. In cases where the manufacturer’s conduct was especially reckless, punitive damages may also be awarded to deter similar behavior in the future.
Emotional distress and loss of consortium are additional areas where victims may receive compensation. These damages recognize the broader impact of the injury on the victim’s quality of life and personal relationships. Securing these damages not only provides financial relief but also holds manufacturers accountable, promoting higher safety standards in the industry.
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