The Subrogation Strategist

Since the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania decided Tincher v. Omega Flex, Inc., 104 A.3d 328 (Pa. 2014), parties proceeding in product liability cases in Pennsylvania often disagree about jury instructions. In Davis v. Volkswagen Grp. of Am., No. 1405 EDA 2018, 2019 Pa. Super. Unpub. LEXIS 2763, the Superior Court of Pennsylvania, in an unpublished opinion,[1] recently addressed whether the trial court gave proper jury instructions in a products liability case against Volkswagen entities, including Volkswagen Aktiengeselleschaft (Volkswagen). The court held that, despite a statement in Tincher that the plaintiff is the “master of the claim,” the trial court properly instructed the jury on both the consumer expectation test and the risk-utility test for establishing that the product at issue, a Volkswagen Passat, was in a defective condition.Continue Reading

Although there are times when both parties agree on the need to perform destructive tests on an object, when the parties disagree, the party seeking the destructive tests must justify its request. In Doerrer v. Schreiber Foods, Inc., et al., No. 2017-08582, 2019 N.Y. App. Div. LEXIS 4743, the Second Department of the Supreme Court of New York’s Appellate Division recently explained what a defendant moving to secure destructive testing needs to show in order to perform the testing it seeks.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On June 26, 2019, the CPSC announced the following recalls related to fireworks products that present explosion and burn hazards:

Grandma’s Fireworks Recalls Fireworks Due to Violation of Federal Standards; Explosion and Burn Hazards;

GS Fireworks Recalls ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On June 25, 2019, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

QTOP USA Recalls LED Work Light Replacement Bulbs Due to Fire Hazard.

According to the CPSC, “[t]he LED replacement bulbs can overheat due to an electrical ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On June 21, 2019, the CPSC announced the following recalls related to products that present fire-related hazards:

Honeywell Recalls Gamewell-FCI and Notifier Photoelectric Smoke Sensors Sold with Fire Alarm Systems Due to Failure to Alert of a Fire;

H.E. Industrial ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On May 30, 2019, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Excel Industries Recalls Zero-Turn Mowers Due to Fire Hazard.

According to the CPSC, “[a] wire tie underneath the seat could damage the fuel line, posing a fire ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On May 29, 2019, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Target Recalls USB Charging Cables Due to Shock and Fire Hazards.

According to the CPSC, “[t]he metal around the cord can become electrically charged if it ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. Recently, the CPSC announced the following recalls related to products that present fire hazards:

Tween Brands Recalls Light Up Bed Canopies Due to Fire and Burn Hazards;

DAVIDsTEA Recalls Valentine’s Day Stackable Mugs Due to Fire Hazard.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On April 18, 2019, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Arctic Cat Recalls Snowmobiles Due to Fire Hazard.

According to the CPSC, “[w]hile operating the snowmobile the exhaust can flame from the muffler outlet ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On March 28, 2019, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Interline Brands Recalls Swivel Fittings Due to Fire Hazard.

According to the CPSC, “[t]he fittings can leak, posing a fire hazard.” The swivels are used ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. Recently, the CPSC announced the following recalls related to products that present fire hazards:

Kubota Recalls Zero Turn Mowers Due to Fire Hazard (March 20, 2019);

American Honda Recalls Portable Generators Due to Fire and Burn Hazards (March 20, 2019);

Bulk ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On March 14, 2019, the CPSC announced the following recalls related to products that present fire hazards:

Kawasaki USA Recalls Off-Highway Utility Vehicles Due to Fuel Leak, Fire Hazards;

Brush Art Recalls WIC Nutrition Plates Due to Fire Hazard; and

Tech Gear 5.7 ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On March 12, 2019, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

HP Expands Recall of Batteries for Notebook Computers and Mobile Workstations Due to Fire and Burn Hazards.

According to the CPSC, “[t]he lithium-ion ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On March 8, 2019, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

TJX Recalls Heating Pads Due to Fire and Burn Hazards; Sold Exclusively at T.J. Maxx and Marshalls Stores.

According to the CPSC, “[t]he heating pads can ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On March 5, 2019, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Arctic Cat Recalls Textron Off-Highway Utility Vehicles Due to Fuel Leak and Fire Hazard.

According to the CPSC, the “[f]uel can leak from the fuel line, posing a ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On February 19, 2019, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Academy Sports + Outdoors Recalls Turkey Fryer Due to Fire Hazard.

According to the CPSC, “[t]he turkey fryer spout can leak oil, posing a fire hazard.”Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On February 14, 2019, the CPSC announced the following recalls related to products that present fire hazards:

PurpleAir Recalls Power Supply Units for Air Sensors Due to Fire and Burn Hazards; and

CVB Recalls LUCID Folding Mattress-Sofas Due to Violation of Federal ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On February 7, 2019, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Delta Electronics Recalls Solar Inverters Due to Fire and Impact Hazards.

According to the CPSC, “[t]he capacitors can fail and allow heat to build up and the ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. Despite the partial government shutdown, Hewlett Packard has announced an expansion of the battery recall that it first announced in January of 2018. The “batteries have the potential to overheat, posing a fire and burn hazard to customers.” As stated on the recall website:

Batteries affected by this program may have been ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. Despite the partial government shutdown, on January 19, 2019, TJX has announced a recall of its Aroma Home USB Heated Hottie Heating Pad. TJX announced the recall because the “heating pads can overheat during use, posing fire and burn hazards.”

To find out more about the recall, go to this website.Continue Reading

In Kohler Co. v. Superior Court, 29 Cal. App. 5^th 55 (2018), the Second District of the Court of Appeal of California considered whether the lower court properly allowed homeowners to bring class action claims under the Right to Repair Act (the Act) against a manufacturer of a plumbing fixture for alleged defects in the product. After an extensive analysis of the language of the Act, the court found that class action claims under the Act are not allowed if the product was completely manufactured offsite. Since the subject fixture was completely manufactured offsite, the Court of Appeal reversed the lower court’s decision. The court’s holding establishes that rights and remedies set forth in the Right to Repair Act are not available for class action claims alleging defects in products completely manufactured offsite.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On December 12, 2018, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

White-Rodgers Recalls Thermostats Due to Fire Hazard.

According to the CPSC, “[c]ontact between the thermostat wires and household line voltage can ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On November 8, 2018, the CPSC announced the following recalls related to products that present fire hazards:

A.O. Smith Recalls Ultra-Low NOx Water Heaters Due to Fire Hazard;

A. O. Smith Recalls 30-Gallon Gas Water Heaters Due to Fire Hazard; Sold Exclusively at ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On October 25, 2018, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Haier America Recalls Top-Mount Refrigerators Due to Fire Hazard.

According to the CPSC, “[a]n electrical component in the refrigerator can short ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On October 19, 2018, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Brookstone Wireless Speakers Recalled Due to Fire Hazard.

According to the CPSC, “[t]he lithium ion batteries in the wireless speakers can overheat and ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On October 18, 2018, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Hydrolevel Recalls Controllers for Slant/Fin Boilers Due to Fire Hazard.

According to the CPSC, “[a] malfunction in the recalled controller can cause the ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On October 18, 2018, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Kikkerland Recalls Wireless Charger Bedside Pockets Due to Fire and Burn Hazard.

According to the CPSC, “[t]he wireless charger bedside pockets can ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On October 11, 2018, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Cooper Lighting Recalls Solar/Battery Powered Light Fixtures Due to Fire Hazard.

According to the CPSC, “[t]he batteries in the solar-powered light ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On October 10, 2018, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Briggs & Stratton Recalls Portable Generator Fuel Tank Replacement Caps, Due to Fire Hazard.

According to the CPSC, “[t]he fuel tank replacement caps lack ... Continue Reading

In Kim v. Toyota Motor Corp., 6 Cal.5^th 21 (Cal. 2018), the Supreme Court of California considered whether the trial court properly allowed the defendant to introduce evidence of industry custom and practice in defense of a strict product liability design defect case. The Supreme Court held that the evidence was relevant and admissible because it was introduced to address the feasibility and cost of alternative product designs, and not to show that the defendant acted reasonably. The court’s holding establishes that, while evidence of industry custom and practice is not admissible to prove or disprove fault in strict liability cases, it is admissible for other purposes, such as analyzing whether a product was defectively designed under the risk-benefit test.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On September 25, 2018, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Traeger Grills Recalls Wood Pellet Grills Due to Fire Hazard.

According to the CPSC, grease can leak from the drip tray, posing a fire hazard.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On September 5, 2018, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Hawthorne Hydroponics Recalls Humidifiers Due to Fire and Shock Hazards.

According to the CPSC, the humidifiers can overheat while in use.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On August 15, 2018, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Xtava Recalls Allure Hair Dryers Due to Fire, Burn and Electrical Shock Hazards.

According to the CPSC, “[t]he hair dryer and power cord can overheat and catch ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On August 2, 2018, the CPSC announced the following recalls related to products that present fire and/or explosion hazards:

Zebra Technologies Expands Recall of Power Supply Units for Thermal Printers Due to Fire Hazard

Miller Fireworks Recalls Fireworks Due to ... Continue Reading

In a recent decision, Great Northern Ins. Co. v. Honeywell Int’l, Inc., 2018 Minn. LEXIS 236, the Supreme Court of Minnesota addressed two important legal questions: (1) did the “machinery and equipment” exception to Minnesota’s statute of repose for improvements to real property allow the plaintiff to bring claims against the manufacturer of a component part used in a home’s heat-recovery ventilator; and (2) did the defendant have a post-sale duty to warn the plaintiff? In answering the first question, the court clarified the meaning of the term “machinery” as used in Minnesota’s statute of repose. In answering the second question, the court adopted a test to apply to determine the circumstances under which a defendant in a product’s chain of distribution has a post-sale duty to warn.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On June 5, 2018, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Keyera Energy Recalls to Inspect Propane Gas Due to Fire and Explosion Hazards.

According to the CPSC, the recalled propane gas does not contain sufficient levels ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On May 23, 2018, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Kohler Recalls Automatic Transfer Switches for Kohler Generators Due to Fire Hazard.

According to the CPSC, this recall involves Kohler 100-amp service entrance ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On May 15, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents an explosion hazard:

Regency Fireplace Products Recalls Gas Stove Fireplaces Due to Explosion and Injury Hazards.

According to the CPSC, the pressure release system can fail and ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On April 4, 2018, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Vornado Air Recalls Electric Space Heaters Due to Fire and Burn Hazards.

According to the CPSC, the electric space heater can overheat when in use.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On March 19, 2018, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Carrier® Recalls to Repair Commercial Rooftop HVAC Units Due to Fire Hazard.

According to the CPSC, “[t]he HVAC’s humidimizer fan can fail to shut off when a ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On March 21, 2018, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced a recall of Kidde dual sensor smoke alarms because they pose a risk of consumers not being alerted to a fire in their home. The recall is detailed at the following link:

Kidde Recalls Dual Sensor Smoke ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On March 15, 2018, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Beanworthy Recalls Combination Battery Chargers/Hand Warmers Due to Fire and Burn Hazard; Sold Exclusively at Amazon.com ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. Recently, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the following recall notices related to products that present fire hazards:

Goodman Manufacturing Recalls Modular Blowers Due to Fire Hazard
Goodman Company Recalls Packaged Terminal Air Conditioners ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On February 8, 2018, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Fujitsu Recalls Battery Packs for Fujitsu Notebook Computers and Workstations Due to Fire and Burn Hazards.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On February 6, 2018, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Lenovo Recalls ThinkPad Laptops Due to Fire Hazard.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On January 31, 2018, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Vornado Air Recalls Cribside Space Heaters Due to Fire and Burn Hazards.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On January 4, 2018, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

HP Recalls Batteries for Notebook Computers and Mobile Workstations Due to Fire and Burn Hazards.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On December 7, 2017, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Westinghouse Portable Generators Recalled by MWE Investments Due to Fire Hazard.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control.Continue Reading

In the United States, to prove a products liability claim based upon a design defect, the plaintiff must either meet: (1) the consumer-expectation test, or (2) the risk-utility test, depending upon the jurisdiction. Although Nevada has historically followed the consumer-expectation test, in a recent decision the Supreme Court of Nevada evaluated whether to adopt the more stringent risk-utility test. Ultimately, the court rejected adoption of the risk-utility test and reaffirmed its prior precedent holding that a plaintiff need only meet the consumer-expectation test. See Ford Motor Company v. Trejo, 2017 Nev. LEXIS 90 (September 27, 2017).Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On October 20, 2017, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the following expanded recall related to Bosch, Gaggenau, Jenn-Air and Thermador products that present a fire hazard:

BSH Home Appliances Expands Recall of Dishwashers Due to Fire Hazard.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On September 26, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Saber Grills Recalls Grills and LP Regulators Due to Fire and Burn Hazards.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On September 6, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Kawasaki Recalls Brute Force 300 All-Terrain Vehicles Due to Fire Hazard.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On August 23, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Academy Sports + Outdoors Recalls Crawfish Kits with Strainer Due to Fire Hazard.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On August 16, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

FedEx Supply Chain Recalls Cellphone Batteries That Could Lead to Fire and Burn Hazards.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On August 10, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Kawasaki Recalls All-Terrain Vehicles Due to Fire Hazard.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On August 7, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Firewood Recalls Vaporizers Due to Fire Hazard.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On August 2, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Fred’s Recalls Charcoal Grills Due to Fire Hazard.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On July 28, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Nestlé Waters North America Recalls AccuPure Water Dispensers Due to Fire and Burn Hazards.Continue Reading

By: Edward A. Jaeger, Jr. and William L. Doerler

In products liability actions, in order to ensure that all potentially liable parties are included in a lawsuit, subrogation professionals often include strict liability claims against products sellers within the chain of distribution for a product. In West Virginia, the Legislature recently enacted legislation, W. Va. Code § 55-7-31, designed to protect “innocent” sellers from product liability lawsuits. The legislation states that, for actions involving a product sold on or after July 6, 2017, no product liability action – i.e. a strict liability action – can be maintained against a seller unless the seller meets one of the noted exceptions.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On July 25, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Polaris Recalls RZR 170 Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles Due to Fuel Leak, Fire Hazards.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On July 24, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

iRover Recalls Self-Balancing Scooters/Hoverboards Due to Fire Hazard.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On July 19, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Polaris Recalls Sportsman 570 All-Terrain Vehicles Due to Fuel Leak, Fire Hazards.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On July 13, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

YSN Imports Recalls Refillable Propane Cylinders Due to Fire, Explosion Hazards.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On July 5, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Lumicentro Internacional with Home Depot Recalls Crystal Chandeliers Due to Fire and Burn Hazards.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On June 20, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Kawasaki Recalls Utility Vehicles, Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles and All-Terrain Vehicles Due to Fire Hazard.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On May 26, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Cordless Electric Lawn Mowers Recalled Due to Fire Hazard; Made by Hongkong Sun Rise Trading.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On May 23, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Sportex Recalls Salt Rock Lamps Due to Shock and Fire Hazards.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. The CPSC recently announced the following recall notices related to products that present fire hazards:

Carrier and Bryant Recall Heat Pumps Due to Fire Hazard

Night Lights Recalled by AM Conservation Group Due to Fire Hazard.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On May 12, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire spread hazard:

Honeywell International Recalls SWIFT® Wireless Gateway Sold with Fire Alarm Systems Due To Failure to Communicate in Fire.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On May 5, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Springs Window Fashions Recalls Lithium Batteries Sold with Motorized Window Coverings Due to Fire and Burn Hazards.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On April 20, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Food Dehydrators Recalled by Greenfield World Trade Due to Fire and Burn Hazards.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On April 13, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall notices related to products that present fire hazards:

Bosch Solar Services Recalls Solar Panels Due To Fire Hazard

Polaris Recalls Ranger 900 Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles Due to Fire and Burn HazardsContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On March 24, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

OPW Recalls Gas Station Hose Swivel Connectors Due to Fire, Explosion HazardsContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On March 23, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Vecaro LifeStyle Recalls Self-Balancing Scooters/Hoverboards Due to Fire HazardContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On March 21, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Polaris Recalls Sportsman 850 and 1000 All-Terrain Vehicles Due to Burn and Fire HazardsContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On March 14, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Battery Chargers for XBOX ONE Video Game Controllers Recalled by Performance Designed Products Due to Burn HazardContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On March 10, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

R.W. Beckett Recalls Fuel Oil Valves Due to Fire HazardContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On March 2, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Polaris Recalls RZR and GENERAL Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles Due to Burn and Fire HazardsContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On March 1, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recall related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Philips Lighting Expands Recall of Metal Halide Lamps Due to Fire and Laceration HazardsContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On February 23, 2017, the CPSC announced the following recalls related to products that present fire hazards:

Carrier Expands Recall of Packaged Terminal Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps Due to Fire Hazard

STIHL Recalls Chain Saws Due to Fire and Burn HazardsContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On February 2, 2017, the CPSC issued the following recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Recalls Mickey Mouse Nightlights Due to Fire HazardContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On January 25, 2017, the CPSC issued the following recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Country Home Products Recalls Field & Brush Mowers Due to Fire and Burn HazardsContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On January 24, 2017, the CPSC issued the following, expanded recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

HP Expands Recall of Batteries for HP and Compaq Notebook Computers Due to Fire and Burn HazardsContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. Recently, the CPSC issued the following recall notices related to products that present fire hazards:

Nantucket Distributing Recalls Pre-Lit Christmas Trees Due to Fire Hazard (Recall Alert)

Arctic Cat Recalls Snowmobiles Due to Fire Hazard (Recall Alert)Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On January 4, 2017, the CPSC issued the following recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Curio Design Recalls Modular Lights and Bases Due to Shock and Fire Hazards (Recall Alert)Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On January 12, 2017, the CPSC issued the following recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Boosted Recalls Electric Skateboards Due to Fire Hazard.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On January 4, 2017, the CPSC issued the following expanded recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Toshiba Expands Recall of Laptop Computer Battery Packs Due to Burn and Fire Hazards.Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On December 16, 2016, the CPSC issued the following recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

LG Electronics Recalls Portable Air Conditioners Due to Fire HazardContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. Recently, the CPSC issued the following recall notices related to products that present fire hazards:

https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2017/Masterbuilt-Recalls-LP-Gas-SmokersContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On December 6, 2016, the CPSC issued the following recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Target Re-announces Recall of Menorahs Due to Fire HazardContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On November 29, 2016, the CPSC issued the following re-announced recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Gree Re-announces Dehumidifier Recall Following 450 Fires and $19 Million in Property Damage; Brand Names Include Frigidaire, Soleus Air, Kenmore ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On November 10, 2016, the CPSC issued the following recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Kidde Recalls Combination Smoke/CO Alarms Due to Alarm FailureContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On November 2, 2016, the CPSC issued the following recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Dehumidifiers Made by Midea Recalled Due to Serious Fire and Burn Hazards; $4.8 Million in Property Damage Reported

The recall involves 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 65, 70, and ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On November 1, 2016, the CPSC issued the following recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Kikkerland Design Recalls Teapots with Stands Due to Fire HazardContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On October 20, 2016, the CPSC issued the following recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Cabela’s Recalls Food Dehydrators Due to Fire HazardContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On October 18, 2016, the CPSC issued the following recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

Sherwood Marketing Recalls 3 Squares Rice and Slow Cookers Due to Fire, Electric Shock HazardsContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On September 20, 2016, the CPSC issued the following recall notice related to a product that presents a fire hazard:

 Denon Recalls Rechargeable Battery Packs Due to Fire and Burn HazardsContinue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On September 15, 2016, the CPSC issued the following recall notices related to products that present fire hazards:

GE Appliances Recalls Top-Loading Clothes Washers Due to Fire Hazard

Samsung Recalls Galaxy Note7 Smartphones Due to Serious Fire and Burn Hazards

Polaris ... Continue Reading

In subrogation cases where the insured’s damages were caused by a defective product, the fact that the product at issue is or was subject to a recall by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may help to establish that the product was defective when it left the manufacturer’s possession and control. On August 25, 2016, the CPSC issued the following recall notices related to products that present fire hazards:

All Power Portable Generators Recalled by J.D. North America Due to Explosion, Fire and Burn Hazards

Whirlpool Recalls Microwaves Due to Fire HazardContinue Reading