Explosions. Addictions. Illnesses. These are just a few of the dangerous side effects of e-cigarette use. Given the overwhelming evidence that vaping can cause serious, lifelong and even fatal health problems, it’s no surprise that so many Americans are seeking legal actions for the companies responsible for the damage.
Why is Vaping Dangerous?
E-cigarettes have been known to explode upon use, while charging, or while in the pocket or purse of the user. These explosions can cause severe chemical and heat burns, leaving victims with painful and often lifelong injuries. As long as lithium batteries are continued to be used in vaping devices, the risk of explosion remains.
Lung damage is another dangerous side effect of vaping. Many people don’t know that vape cartridges often use a chemical called diacetyl to help the juice stay liquified. Inhalation of this chemical can lead to the development of a health condition nicknamed Popcorn Lung. Diacetyl was once used in the manufacturing of microwave popcorn – at least until factory workers developed serious, long-term lung damage while inhaling the chemical on the job. Irreversible lung problems and chronic coughing awaits many of those who use e-cigarettes.
Vape use can also lead to serious nicotine addiction. Unfortunately, many young users of these devices do not understand that the vape juice inside contains nicotine. The chemical is absorbed into the bloodstream when it is vaped, increasing the rate of dopamine in the brain and leading to addiction. While many believe vaping to be the healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes, they’re just as dangerous and addictive.
What Injuries are Caused by Vaping?
When an e-cigarette explodes, the damage happens fast: devastating tissue burns, bone loss, and skin loss are all possible. The victim may also experience severe damage to the face or jaw, lacerations, and even the loss of an appendage. The recovery from vaping injuries can be an extremely painful and time-consuming process.
Even if your e-cigarette does not explode, you could develop serious, long-term health issues because of your vape pen. Other common vaping injuries include:
- Lung damage
- Lung cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Heart attack
- DNA damage
- Nicotine addiction
- Popcorn lung
- Asthma
Do I Have a Viable Vaping Injury Lawsuit?
Every case is different, and it’s impossible to know whether or not a vape injury is grounds for a lawsuit without first speaking to an experienced personal injury lawyer. Generally, though, you’ll need evidence that the vaping device you used led directly to your injury. In such cases, victims are often eligible for compensation for the damages associated with their injuries.
For instance, if you sought medical treatment after your vape exploded, your healthcare costs could be covered by a vaping injury lawsuit settlement. Lost wages, pain and suffering can all be factored into your settlement with the vaping manufacturer.
Legal Advice for Victims of Vaping Injuries
We’re currently accepting vaping-related injury cases from across the country. The Law Firm of Richard J. Serpe, PC has worked tirelessly on behalf of consumers to hold negligent companies responsible for their defective products. If you or someone you love has been injured while using a vaping device or e-cigarette, you should contact us right away for a free consultation.
Doesn’t the Law Protect Us From Dangerous E-Cigarettes and Vaping Devices?
Believe it or not, there are no specific regulations surrounding these devices. Companies behind e-cigarettes and vape pens are not required to submit design plans or safety test results to the federal government. Even the liquids used inside vaping devices are completely unregulated. This puts consumers at risk – especially teens and young adults who are so often enticed by the candy-flavored vape juice inside vaping cartridges.
While there is no legal requirement to ensure vaping device safety, victims of vaping injuries do have the right to sue the companies responsible for their accident. Keep reading if you believe you have grounds for a vaping injury lawsuit.
