Potential Skin, Eye, and Respiratory Irritation Leads to Nationwide Recall
MGA Entertainment has issued a recall for its popular Miniverse Make It Mini sets due to the potential health risks associated with the liquid resins included in these products. The recall, affecting approximately 21 million units in the United States and an additional 1 million in Canada, has been prompted by concerns that the resins can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation or sensitization when inhaled, touched, or ingested. These resins contain acrylates, specifically hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA) and isobornyl acrylate (IBOA), in amounts that violate the Federal Hazardous Substances Act for children’s products. Once cured, the resins no longer pose this hazard, but their liquid state presents significant risks.
Details of the Recall and Product Description
The recalled Miniverse Make It Mini sets include a variety of themes such as appliances, food, and lifestyle items. Each set typically comes packaged in a sphere containing materials to assemble miniature imitation items. The resin packaging often imitates food items like peanut butter jars or milk containers, adding to the potential risk if mistaken for actual consumable products. The sets are also available in dedicated boxes with labels such as “Kitchen,” “Multipack,” “All You Can Eat,” “Ice Cream Social,” and “Pizza Party.” Consumers can identify the recalled products by checking the item numbers and UPC codes printed on the back of the wrappers or boxes.
Health Hazards and Reported Incidents
The main hazard associated with the Miniverse Make It Mini sets is the liquid resin, which can cause serious health issues upon contact or inhalation. Acrylates like HEMA and IBOA are known irritants and can lead to skin burns, eye irritation, and respiratory problems. MGA Entertainment has received 26 reports of incidents involving these products, including cases of skin burns, irritation, and respiratory distress. In one instance, a consumer reported that their asthma was triggered by exposure to the resin.
Remedy and Consumer Guidance
Consumers who have purchased the recalled sets are advised to immediately stop using any units with unused resins. They should contact MGA Entertainment to receive a pre-paid label to return either the entire product (if unopened) or just the unused resins along with a photograph of the opened product. MGA Entertainment is offering a full refund or a replacement product at the consumer’s choice. For assistance, consumers can reach MGA Entertainment at 800-222-4685 or via email at mvcustomer_care@mgae.com. Further information is also available on the company’s website under the “Recalls” section.
Legal Implications and Filing a Lawsuit
Victims harmed by these hazardous products have the right to seek compensation through a product liability lawsuit. Such lawsuits are essential in holding manufacturers accountable for the safety of their products and securing damages for those affected by their negligence. In cases of injury from the Miniverse Make It Mini sets, victims might face significant medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term health issues, making legal recourse a critical step towards recovery.
The process of filing a lawsuit begins with consulting a personal injury attorney who specializes in product liability cases. This consultation will help evaluate the case, gather necessary evidence, and decide on the best course of action. The attorney will then file a complaint to initiate the legal process. The discovery phase follows, during which both parties exchange information and gather further evidence. Settlement negotiations may take place, but if a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial.
Importance of Legal Representation
Navigating a product liability lawsuit can be complex and challenging, requiring the expertise of a skilled attorney. Legal representation ensures that the victims’ rights are protected and that they receive fair compensation for their injuries. An attorney can handle all aspects of the case, from gathering evidence and filing paperwork to negotiating with insurers and representing the victim in court. This support is crucial for achieving a favorable outcome in such cases.
Damages recovered in a product liability lawsuit for injuries caused by the Miniverse Make It Mini sets can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages. These compensations aim to address the victims’ losses and hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.
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