Consumers Warned to Stop Using Defective Rolling Coolers Immediately
Igloo has issued a recall for over one million of its 90 Qt. Flip & Tow Rolling Coolers across the United States, Mexico, and Canada following reports of serious injuries caused by a hazardous tow handle. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced the recall on February 13, 2025, urging consumers to stop using the product immediately due to the risk of severe hand injuries, including amputations.
The recall comes after at least 12 reported injuries in the U.S., where users suffered fingertip amputations, bone fractures, and deep lacerations. The problem stems from the cooler’s tow handle, which can pinch users’ fingers when extended or collapsed, leading to crushing injuries. Although no injuries have been reported in Canada or Mexico, the recall affects more than 1.06 million units in the U.S., 47,000 in Canada, and 23,000 in Mexico.
How the Igloo Cooler Handle Poses a Serious Injury Risk
The 90 Qt. Flip & Tow Rolling Cooler has been a popular product since its release in 2019, sold at major retailers such as Costco, Target, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Amazon for prices ranging between $80 and $140. Consumers were drawn to the cooler for its convenience, large capacity, and portability. However, the design flaw in the tow handle has turned this everyday product into a serious safety hazard.
The primary issue is a pinching mechanism in the tow handle, which traps users’ fingertips when they attempt to lift or lower the handle. Many consumers were unaware of the risk until experiencing severe pain and injury. Some injuries resulted in partial amputations, crushed bones, and deep cuts requiring medical intervention.
Although Igloo stated in its recall notice that consumer safety is its top priority, the defect raises concerns about whether proper testing and safety measures were in place before the product was widely distributed. The company has urged consumers to stop using the cooler immediately and register for a free replacement handle through their website or by contacting Igloo directly.
The Legal Implications of the Igloo Cooler Injuries
Consumers who have suffered injuries from the defective Igloo coolers may be able to file a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer. Product liability law holds companies accountable when their products cause harm due to design defects, manufacturing flaws, or inadequate safety warnings. In this case, Igloo may face legal claims for negligence in failing to design a safe product, defective manufacturing, and failure to warn consumers of known risks before the recall was issued.
Lawsuits against Igloo could allege that the company knew or should have known about the risks associated with the tow handle and that proper safety modifications should have been implemented before these injuries occurred. If a court finds that Igloo failed to take reasonable steps to protect consumers, the company could be held financially responsible for the damages suffered by injured users.
Victims may be eligible to file individual lawsuits or join a class-action lawsuit if multiple claims arise from similar injuries. A successful lawsuit could result in compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the injuries caused by the defective product.
Why Injured Consumers Need a Lawyer
Filing a product liability claim can be complex, especially when dealing with a large corporation like Igloo. Injured consumers should seek legal representation to ensure their rights are protected and that they receive fair compensation for their injuries.
An experienced product liability attorney can assist by gathering evidence, including medical records, witness testimony, and product defect reports. They will work to prove that the defective handle directly caused the injuries and that Igloo failed to take adequate safety measures to prevent these incidents. Attorneys also handle negotiations with Igloo and their insurance providers, ensuring that victims do not accept low settlement offers that fail to cover the full extent of their damages.
Without legal representation, injured consumers may struggle to prove their case, especially if Igloo attempts to deny liability or downplay the severity of the injuries. An attorney will advocate for victims and fight for the maximum compensation available under the law.
Damages Available in a Product Liability Lawsuit
Victims injured by the defective Igloo Flip & Tow Rolling Cooler may be entitled to recover a variety of damages, depending on the severity of their injuries and financial losses.
Medical Expenses are often the most significant cost, especially for those who suffered fingertip amputations, fractures, or severe lacerations requiring surgery and rehabilitation. Compensation can cover hospital bills, physical therapy, medications, and future medical treatment related to the injury.
Lost Wages can be recovered for individuals who missed work due to their injuries. Some victims may experience long-term disability if they lost part of a finger, affecting their ability to perform certain job duties.
Pain and Suffering damages account for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury. Losing part of a finger or suffering permanent hand damage can have a lasting impact on a person’s quality of life, affecting daily activities, hobbies, and even personal relationships.
In cases where Igloo is found to have acted with gross negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the company and deter future safety violations. These damages are meant to send a message that companies must take consumer safety seriously and address product defects before injuries occur.
If you or a loved one has suffered a fingertip amputation, fracture, or serious hand injury due to the Igloo 90 Qt. Flip & Tow Rolling Cooler, you may have a right to pursue significant compensation. The national product injury law firm Parker Waichman LLP is investigating claims against Igloo and is dedicated to holding negligent manufacturers accountable.
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