Electronic cigarettes (e-Cigarettes) are becoming more popular across the U.S., particularly with young people. Recent studies have shown a rise in the use of e-cigarettes by high school students. Additionally, the American Lung Association noted that the use of e-cigarettes is surpassing that of traditional cigarettes.
On the surface, e-cigarettes appear to be safer than traditional cigarettes. However, a closer look at e-cigarettes shows a dangerous product with increased incidents over the last several months. Even more concerning is that unlike traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes have not been regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
e-Cigarette Dangers
To begin with, e-cigarette aerosol is not simply harmless water vapor. E-cigarettes use lithium-ion batteries to deliver liquid nicotine in vapor form. This liquid may be mixed with other chemicals, flavorings, and coloring agents. Several of the chemicals found in e-cigarettes are carcinogenic.
Another problem with e-cigarettes is that the active ingredient, nicotine, is unsafe and highly addictive. Exposure to nicotine during pregnancy harms the fetus; nicotine use during adolescence is associated with memory and attention deficits. Secondhand aerosol that is exhaled by e-cigarette users is potentially harmful to the health of others.
In addition, e-cigarettes can overheat or malfunction, causing explosions, fires, and serious injuries. According to a report from NBC News by Herb Weisbaum, hospitals have seen an increased number of e-cigarette burns, particularly third-degree burns requiring skin grafts. The article also notes that temperatures below 50 or above 115 degrees can cause the lithium-ion batteries to malfunction, causing the flammable battery parts to explode. The cheaper e-cigarettes manufactured in China are more likely to have manufacturing defects and greater potential to explode.[1]
Beginning in August, 2016, new FDA regulations will require all e-cigarette manufacturers to begin registering with the FDA. However, the deadline for registration is 2018 and the 500 brands will continue in the marketplace until the FDA reviews each. Without full evaluation by the FDA, it’s not clear which chemicals may be used in the nicotine liquid or how e-cigarettes may affect the health of e-cigarette users now or in the long-term.
Hoverboards
The problem with lithium-ion batteries is not limited to e-cigarettes. Poorly designed or malfunctioning lithium-ion batteries or chargers used in hoverboards have also caused numerous explosions, injuring people as well as destroying property. According to a February 20, 2016 USA Today article, hoverboards have caused over 50 fires in the U.S. with over $2 million in property damage. [2]
Dangerous e-cigarette, hoverboard, and lithium-ion battery manufacturers need to be held responsible for their negligence. If you or a family member have suffered an injury from an electronic cigarette, a hoverboard, or another defective product, Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. can help. The manufacturer can be held liable for injuries and damages and you or your family members may be entitled to compensation.
Since 1990, Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. has provided reputable legal representation to people throughout Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade Counties. The firm has helped thousands of individuals recover compensation from motor vehicle and boating accidents, slip and fall accidents, product defect and liability cases, pharmacy errors, and negligent security cases to cover medical expenses, pay bills, take care of their families, and return to work. Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. can help you get the relief you need to start living your life again after a serious injury. For a free and confidential consultation, contact Goldman & Daszkal, P.A., at (954) 428-9333.
[1] http://www.nbcnews.com/business/consumer/what-s-causing-some-e-cigarette-batteries-explode-n533516
[2] http://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/news/2016/02/19/hoverboards-fire-safety-consumer-product-safety-commission-recall-seize-impound/80607978/