There are few things more useful than a multi-use charger.
However, be careful what you wish for. Two residential fires are being blamed on the myCharge POWER HUB All-In-One, a multi-use charger sold by Costco.
The parent company, RFA Brands of Birmingham, Michigan, recalled more than half million of the devices. There were 120 reports of overheating, including two home fires, and $165,000 in property damage was claimed.
At this time, the company says there are no reports of injuries. However, Costco has received more than 100 returns because customers said the chargers were melting, expanding, smoking, catching on fire, exploding or sparking.
It should be noted that the consumer should not simply throw away the devices because there are local or state ordinances for disposing of lithium-ion batteries.
Who is at fault for a product defect like this?
At this time, there are not yet lawsuits regarding the fires caused by these chargers. And there might not be; people who have homeowners insurance that covers the costs would not need to file lawsuits to recover their losses.
If a victim suffers a burn injury or other type of personal injury, they might be able to file a lawsuit against the manufacturer of the charger.
Can a recall absolve the manufacturer of responsibility for injury from a faulty product?
No, a recall does not typically absolve a manufacturer from responsibility for an injury caused by a defective product. An injured consumer has the right to file a lawsuit for their losses.
However, there are some defenses a manufacturer might argue to lessen their liability:
- Timing. If the company is able to recall the item before any injury occurs, there is a stronger defense that the manufacturer actively tried to prevent any harm.
- Adequacy. Communication and execution of the recall indicates the adequacy of warning to consumers. If it was handled poorly, the manufacturer could still be liable.
- Knowledge. If the manufacturer knew or should have known about the defect, they could be held liable even when there is a recall.
- Compliance. If the manufacturer and retailers followed the legal requirements of a recall, this could work in their favor in mounting a legal defense.
- Jurisdiction. States vary in how they handle some aspects to personal injury lawsuits. The state where you’re located, and where the manufacturer is located, will affect the outcome of your lawsuit.
Noteworthy recalls in 2024
It’s important to stay attuned to recall notices. For instance, in early 2024, Costco recalled several items because of concerns over listeria bacteria contamination.
In June 2024, an announcement was made regarding an ice cream recall for products branded by Hershey’s, Friendly’s and Jeni’s. This recall was also for listeria concerns.
What to do if you purchased a recalled product
The recall announcement usually includes information about how to remedy the issue. There might be a fix available, so you would order parts and modify the item yourself. Or, the manufacturer might specify that you should return the product to the retailer where you purchased it.
If you own a myCharge device, you should contact the manufacturer at 888-251-2026 for a replacement.
If you were injured by a faulty product, you can contact a personal injury lawyer in your state to determine whether you might be eligible to file a claim.