LG Electronics has issued a recall for approximately 500,000 electric ranges due to a dangerous defect involving the front-mounted knobs, which can be unintentionally activated, posing a fire hazard. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced the recall on February 6, 2025, citing at least 86 reports of unintentional activation, leading to more than 28 fires and multiple pet deaths. The affected models, sold between 2015 and January 2025 at major retailers like Best Buy, Costco, The Home Depot, and Lowe’s, include both slide-in and freestanding electric ranges.
The recall highlights serious safety concerns for consumers, particularly those with small children or pets. Front-mounted knobs are convenient, but the unintended consequence of accidental activation has led to kitchen fires that could have been prevented with better safety measures. Consumers who own one of the recalled models are urged to check their range's model and serial numbers against the recall list provided by LG and the CPSC. While the company is offering a free warning label and instructions on how to use the Control Lock/Lock Out feature, this solution has left many consumers frustrated, as it does not fully address the design flaw.
The Dangers Posed by Defective LG Electric Ranges
Household fires caused by appliances are not uncommon, but when a manufacturer is aware of a defect and does not issue an immediate fix, the consequences can be severe. In this case, LG’s electric ranges have a front-mounted knob design that allows for accidental activation with slight contact, whether from a person brushing against it, a pet jumping onto the appliance, or an object pressing against the knob. This unintentional activation has resulted in at least 28 reported fires, some of which were serious enough to cause property damage and loss of life.
Fire hazards in the kitchen are particularly dangerous due to the presence of flammable materials such as cooking oils, paper towels, and wooden utensils. If a burner is turned on without the homeowner realizing it, even briefly leaving the kitchen can be enough time for a fire to start. Three reported incidents have resulted in pet fatalities, underscoring the deadly potential of this defect.
For families with young children, the risk extends beyond fires. Toddlers who are curious about kitchen appliances could unknowingly turn on a burner, leading to burns or starting a fire while parents are unaware. The issue is further complicated by the fact that many consumers are only now learning about the recall, despite the problem existing for nearly a decade.
LG’s response to the issue has been met with mixed reactions. While the company is offering a warning sticker and reminding consumers to use the Control Lock feature, many argue this is not an adequate fix. A permanent solution, such as a safer design or a more robust safety mechanism, would be preferable. Consumers who have already suffered property damage or injuries due to the defect may have legal options to seek compensation.
Legal Recourse for Consumers Affected by Defective LG Ranges
Victims who have experienced property damage, injuries, or pet fatalities due to an LG electric range fire may be eligible to file a product liability lawsuit. When a manufacturer releases a product with a dangerous defect and fails to provide an effective recall solution, they can be held legally responsible for the harm their product causes.
Product liability law protects consumers by holding manufacturers accountable when defective products lead to injuries or losses. In this case, LG could face liability under several legal theories, including:
- Defective Design: The front-mounted knob placement and ease of accidental activation create an inherent risk that should have been addressed during the design phase.
- Failure to Warn: LG has been aware of incidents involving these ranges for years, yet its response has been limited to a recall that does not offer a true fix for the defect.
- Negligence: By continuing to sell the defective ranges without implementing a physical safety solution, LG may have negligently placed consumers in harm’s way.
A lawsuit against LG could help victims recover damages for losses such as property repairs, medical bills for burn injuries, and compensation for pain and suffering. In cases where a fire has resulted in significant property destruction or injury, plaintiffs may also seek punitive damages to hold LG accountable for failing to take stronger corrective action.
Filing a Product Liability Lawsuit: What Consumers Need to Know
For those affected by the defective LG ranges, filing a lawsuit can be an important step toward recovering damages and holding the manufacturer accountable. The legal process typically begins with an evaluation of the claim, where an attorney will review the details of the incident, including fire reports, medical records, and any communication with LG.
Once a lawsuit is filed, the discovery process begins, allowing both sides to gather evidence. This may include expert testimony on appliance safety standards, consumer reports on previous incidents, and internal documents from LG regarding their knowledge of the defect. Many product liability cases settle before trial, as manufacturers often prefer to avoid negative publicity and the potential for significant jury awards. If a settlement is not reached, the case proceeds to trial, where a judge or jury determines the extent of LG’s liability.
An attorney is essential for each step of this process. Manufacturers have legal teams dedicated to minimizing their financial responsibility, and without legal representation, victims risk receiving a low settlement offer or having their claims dismissed. A skilled attorney can build a strong case, negotiate aggressively, and ensure that victims are compensated fairly for their losses.
Recoverable Damages in an LG Range Fire Lawsuit
Victims of fires caused by defective LG electric ranges may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including:
- Property Damage: Costs for repairing or replacing damaged property, including kitchen appliances, cabinets, and personal belongings lost in a fire.
- Medical Expenses: Treatment for burns or smoke inhalation caused by the fire.
- Emotional Distress: Compensation for psychological trauma, particularly for families who lost pets or were displaced due to fire damage.
- Lost Wages: If a victim was unable to work due to injuries or home displacement, they may recover lost earnings.
- Punitive Damages: In cases where LG is found to have acted with gross negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to discourage future misconduct.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a fire caused by a defective LG electric range, you may have grounds for legal action. Parker Waichman LLP is committed to helping victims hold manufacturers accountable and recover the compensation they deserve.
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