Cell Phones Have Become a Beneficial Part of Our Daily Routine; However, the Lithium-Ion Batteries Inside May Explode Due to Overheating, Damage, or Manufacturing Defects
If you are old enough to remember life before cell phones, you can appreciate how ubiquitous they have become in our everyday lives. Simply test your dependence on this device by taking a trip to the Department of Motor Vehicles without your phone and the world wide web at your fingertips. Chances are that this little experiment will test your patience and ability to self-entertain. Of course, cell phones have revolutionized our society in many positive ways, enabling remote work opportunities, access to information on nearly any topic at any time, and the security of being able to call for help when you need it, wherever you are.
How Phone Friendly Are New Jerseyans?
Cell phones are present in nearly every corner of the world. The World Bank reports that there are more than 650 million cell phone users in Africa alone, many of which are in the hands of teenagers. New Jersey ranks second in the United States for “most cell phone friendly,” with the top national score for 5G access.
So, is there anything bad to say about these devices that have changed our lives for the better in so many ways? Well, next to an argument of perhaps shortened attention spans, the potential danger of cell phone battery explosions certainly makes a list.
In this article, we will explore the potential dangers of cell phone batteries, as well as computer batteries, what to do if your phone overheats, which may be responsible for a battery explosion, and how a personal injury attorney can help you if you are injured by a cell phone or computer battery explosion.
Explore the Risks Associated with Lithium-Ion Batteries
You might not spend much time thinking about your phone or computer battery beyond keeping it charged, but did you know that inside these devices is a lithium-ion battery that can be subject to dangerous explosions when overheated?
Lithium-ion batteries are generally made from metal oxide, graphite, and other components. These types of batteries have the ability to hold high-density energy and store it for an extended period. Lithium-ion batteries are also rechargeable. They are commonly used in cell phones, laptop computers, and other portable devices.
While highly useful and generally safe, lithium-ion batteries can present risks of serious injury if they explode.
The Dangers of Lithium-ion Batteries Behind the Screen
While lithium-ion batteries are not very common, given the vast number of devices that utilize these batteries, explosions can and do happen. The most common reasons for lithium batteries to explode include overheating, manufacturing defects, and physical impact or damage to the phone.
When a device powered by a lithium-ion battery overheats, it can cause the battery to release flammable electrolytes. This can result in an explosion and fire.
Manufacturing defects may also be responsible for a lithium-ion battery explosion if the battery or device was assembled improperly, contains faulty parts, or was contaminated by something during the manufacturing process.
Finally, if a lithium-ion battery suffers physical damage by being dropped, smashed, run over, and the like, this high impact can cause short circuits and lead to an explosion.
Lithium-ion Battery Explosion Related Injuries
The most common and dangerous injury that is associated with lithium-ion batteries are burns. When a lithium-ion battery explodes, there are often flames containing chemicals. Individuals who are near a lithium-ion battery when it explodes may suffer both fire and chemical burns to their hands, face, and the rest of their body.
As the battery explodes, it causes the device to shatter as well. Sharp or simply fast flying pieces of the device can cause injuries to those nearby, which can be especially threatening to the eyes.
How do I Handle an Overheating Electronic Device?
If you believe your phone is overheating, you should unplug the phone right away and turn it off. Moving the device to a safe area where it can cool down is also prudent. This will help mitigate the heat the device produces and help prevent a battery explosion.
If a Battery Explosion Results in an Injury, Who is Accountable for the Incident?
Sometimes, accidents happen, and no one causes them. Other times, one or more individuals act negligently in some way, which causes or significantly contributes to an accident. Generally, cell phone or portable device users do not cause lithium-ion battery explosions through their own negligence. However, if the phone contained a manufacturing defect, then the phone manufacturer may be responsible for injuries caused by a battery explosion based on strict product liability.
In a strict product liability case, the plaintiff or injured party need not show that the manufacturer was negligent. They must simply prove that the defendant manufactured a product that was unreasonably unsafe and the product caused the plaintiff’s injuries.
Find Out Your Compensation Options after a Lithium-Ion Battery Explosion With the Help of Our NJ Injury Lawyers
If you or a loved one suffered injuries due to a lithium-ion battery explosion in New Jersey, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. This may include medical bills, therapy, compensation for temporary or permanent disability, time off from work, and property damage.
Lithium-ion battery explosion injury cases are far from simple and require the knowledge of a personal injury lawyer who is skilled in product liability litigation. With over 30 years of experience each, Cohen & Riechelson partners are extremely knowledgeable in this complicated area of the law, and we fight tirelessly on behalf of victims who have been injured by defective and dangerous products. We welcome you to contact us and request or schedule a complimentary consultation pertaining to your case.
Our firm assists clients in Woodbridge, Robbinsville, Princeton, Lambertville, Hamilton, Hopewell, and towns in Mercer County, Middlesex County, Burlington County, and throughout New Jersey.. Do not hesitate to get the information and empowerment you need to pursue your legal rights for a battery explosion by calling (609) 528-2596 today.
