Crib Recalls
Even when parents do everything possible to keep their infants and toddlers safe, the negligence of others can put that safety at risk. One danger that families have had to deal with over the years has been defective baby cribs. While the "drop-side" feature in cribs has been a major point of focus in recent years, there are also many other product features that could cause injury, or even death, to babies.
When a baby is injured by a crib that was incorrectly designed, manufactured, distributed or marketed, that baby's parents or caretakers have a right to take action against the responsible party. With the help of a knowledgeable lawyer, these individuals might be eligible to receive financial compensation for the harm that was caused.
Drop-Side Crib Ban and New Safety Standards
Drop-side cribs have proven to be extremely dangerous. A comprehensive review conducted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) made the agency aware of 32 infants and toddlers who died from suffocation and strangulation between the years 2000 and 2010 as a result of these retractable crib sides becoming detached. In some cases, incorrect or confusing directions led to the improper installation of drop-side cribs, which ended up causing a baby harm. There have been recalls of millions of cribs as a result of these problems.
In July 2011, CPSC approved a new crib rule, which says that all cribs made and sold in the United States must follow new federal safety standards. This even applies for the resale of cribs. Under the new rule, it is no longer legal to make or sell traditional cribs with traditional drop-side rails, according to CPSC's website. There are also new requirements, which include strengthening crib slats and mattress supports, enhancing the quality of hardware and conducting better testing of the cribs. Cribs in child care centers and in places that serve the public were given a requirement to comply with the changes by Dec. 28, 2012. According to CPSC, any person or company that does not comply with the new standard will be subject to potential civil penalties and injunctions.
While the new standard is a step toward greater safety for consumers, it does not guarantee safety for all consumers. Some retailers might disregard the law in order to make a profit—they might continue selling the outlawed cribs and therefore place innocent babies and their families in danger. In other instances, manufacturers might be at fault for continuing to make cribs using substandard designs. There might also be other design defects that have not yet received national attention but are still harmful to consumers and their children.
When a Crib is Recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission regularly announces recalls of crib products that have defects. If an individual has a crib that has been recalled, that person is advised to immediately stop using the product and to return it to the seller for repair or replacement. It is illegal for you an individual to sell an unrepaired crib. Those whose babies have been injured by these types of products might be able to seek financial compensation with the help of an attorney.
Helping You Take Legal Action
Parents whose children have been harmed by side-drop cribs receive aggressive representation at Shoop | A Professional Law Corporation, which is a firm that handles product liability cases. Attorney David Shoop has a record of proven experience and success in prosecuting products liability claims. He thoroughly investigates the incident and documents damages suffered. The skilled lawyer seeks full compensation for injuries, including ambulance bills, medical expenses and pain and suffering. He seeks further compensation when brain damage or other permanent injury occurs. Call the firm today to learn how you can take legal action against the person or company that harmed your family.