Medical King’s Recalled Bed Assist Rail Asphyxiation Wrongful Death Lawsuit Lawyers

Pursuing Justice for Entrapment and Asphyxiation Injuries Nationwide

The recent recall of over 200,000 Medical King bed assist rails has raised serious concerns about product safety for medical equipment. Sold online through major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target, these bed rails were marketed as assistance devices to help users get in and out of bed safely. However, a tragic incident involving a 66-year-old man in a residential care facility has highlighted the severe risks associated with these products. The man died of asphyxiation after becoming trapped between the bed rail and mattress—a hazard that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) identifies as a critical entrapment risk. The recall specifically involves three models of Medical King’s bed assist rails, with about 220,000 units impacted. These products, manufactured in China and sold from January 2020 through March 2024, include models with adjustable heights and without legs. The design, which features a metal frame and foam grip handle, poses a serious risk of entrapment, especially for elderly or physically vulnerable individuals. Given that these devices were intended to improve safety, their failure has been alarming for both consumers and healthcare providers. Parker Waichman LLP is currently investigating claims related to injuries and fatalities linked to the recalled Medical King bed rails. Our firm is committed to helping those who have suffered due to the dangers posed by these defective products and assisting families seeking justice for the tragic loss of loved ones.

Understanding the Hazards of Bed Assist Rails and Regulatory Warnings

Bed assist rails are designed to support individuals with limited mobility, making it easier for them to get in and out of bed. However, improperly designed or manufactured bed rails can present a significant risk, especially if they allow a person to become trapped between the mattress and the rail. Entrapment can quickly lead to asphyxiation, as a trapped individual may be unable to free themselves or call for help. These risks are particularly high for elderly users or those with limited physical strength, as they may lack the ability to maneuver out of dangerous positions. This is not the first instance of hazardous bed rails. The CPSC has issued nine separate recalls for adult portable bed rails since 2021, underscoring the prevalence of this issue across various brands. These recalls reflect the persistent danger that some bed rails pose, despite being marketed as safety devices. The CPSC has recommended that consumers who own the recalled Medical King bed rails stop using them immediately. Medical King has offered a repair kit or replacement for the affected models, but the recall and previous incidents suggest that issues with design or construction may be widespread in the adult portable bed rail market. The current recall has raised awareness of the need for stricter safety standards in manufacturing medical equipment. For products intended to support vulnerable users, manufacturers must thoroughly test designs for safety to ensure they don’t inadvertently create additional hazards. With Medical King’s bed rails now linked to a fatal entrapment case, the recall has sparked legal questions regarding product liability and the responsibility of manufacturers to guarantee user safety.

How Victims May Seek Compensation for Injuries Caused by Defective Bed Rails

Victims of entrapment injuries or families who lost loved ones due to defective bed rails have the right to seek compensation through a product liability lawsuit. Product liability law enables individuals to hold manufacturers accountable for releasing products with inherent safety flaws or insufficient warnings. In the case of Medical King’s bed rails, product liability claims may argue that the company failed to adequately warn users about entrapment risks or to design the rails in a way that prevents such incidents. To build a strong case, plaintiffs typically need to gather specific evidence. This includes medical records that document the injury, photos or descriptions of the defective bed rail, and proof of purchase. Victims and their families may also benefit from consulting medical professionals who can testify about the harm caused by the product. Legal representation is crucial, as product liability claims often require technical understanding of design standards, regulatory requirements, and how a product’s flaws directly led to harm. The legal process for filing a product liability lawsuit can be complex, involving initial investigations, collection of evidence, and potentially expert testimonies. An experienced attorney can guide victims through each stage, ensuring that their claim includes compelling evidence. Legal professionals also handle settlement negotiations with manufacturers and their insurers, often reaching a fair settlement without a prolonged court battle. However, should the case proceed to trial, attorneys advocate for their client’s interests, presenting detailed evidence to demonstrate the manufacturer’s responsibility for the harm caused.

Types of Compensation Available in a Bed Rail Injury Lawsuit

For victims of defective bed rail injuries or their surviving family members, compensation can help cover the extensive costs and emotional toll associated with such an event. Medical expenses are among the primary damages sought, as injuries from entrapment may require emergency care, hospitalization, or ongoing treatment. If the incident resulted in death, compensation can also address funeral and burial expenses, providing some relief to grieving families. Lost income is another type of recoverable damage, particularly if the injury prevents the victim from working or requires long-term rehabilitation. Additionally, victims may seek compensation for pain and suffering, acknowledging both the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury or traumatic event. For families who have lost a loved one, compensation for wrongful death may be available, covering not only financial losses but also the emotional impact on those left behind. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded. These damages are intended to penalize manufacturers who display a high level of negligence or disregard for consumer safety. For a product intended to enhance safety, punitive damages emphasize the need for manufacturers to take every precaution in the design, testing, and marketing of their products. Pursuing these damages allows victims and families to seek full accountability and can also encourage manufacturers to implement safer practices.

Why Victims Need an Attorney for Bed Rail Injury Claims

Product liability cases involving defective bed rails require skilled legal representation to ensure all aspects of the case are managed effectively. From the initial case assessment to evidence gathering and representation in court, attorneys play a critical role in advocating for the client’s right to compensation. Working with an attorney also ensures that victims understand the legal standards applicable to their case, including the potential need for expert testimony regarding the design and safety requirements for bed rails. An attorney with experience in product liability law can help guide victims through the process of filing claims, handling communications with the manufacturer’s legal team or insurers, and pursuing the highest possible compensation. The legal complexities of these cases make it difficult for victims to represent themselves effectively. Having a lawyer on their side can make all the difference in achieving a fair outcome.