Introduced just over a decade ago, electronic cigarettes – abbreviated e-cigarettes or simply e-cigs in many cases – have exploded in popularity around the country and even the globe. These devices, which are often marketed as safer, healthier alternatives to harmful cigarettes, come in numerous shapes and sizes, and from a number of different manufacturers.
At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, our personal injury attorneys are beginning to see a rise in the number of cases related to these devices and their use. What are e-cigs, and are they truly healthier than cigarettes? Perhaps more importantly for our readers, are there situations where their manufacturers might be liable for certain negative outcomes? Here’s a look at everything you need to know.
E-cigarettes comprise a variety of devices out there on the market today. Their basic construction involves a battery-powered tube that can heat up a pre-concocted solution, one generally made from a combination of nicotine, propylene glycol and glycerin. Together, these ingredients form a material that can be heated into vapor form, then inhaled by the user.
These devices come with numerous flavor choices. The general idea here is that by avoiding the true smoke and several other highly harmful elements of traditional cigarettes, this is a safer alternative for those who require a nicotine fix.
And while it may indeed be true that e-cigarettes bring certain health upgrades on traditional cigarettes, they come with their own set of risks as well. Users may experience higher rates of respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues, eye irritation, and even potential harm to unborn babies. On top of this, a high percentage of e-cig users also still smoke regular cigarettes. To top it off, there’s limited research data on the long-term health effects of e-cigs.
Now, it’s important to note that many of these areas do not fall under the realm of personal injury. If you are using these devices by your own choice, you accept the basic assumed risks of inhaling substances that might not be good for you.
That said, there are several instances where the manufacturer of e-cigarettes could be listed as liable in a personal injury case. There have been several publicized incidents where these devices have overheated or even exploded, causing injury to the person using them or even others nearby. Issues such as facial burns, teeth knocked out, eye injuries, and even fractured bones in the face or nearby areas have all taken place. If you or a loved one has been the victim of such an event, it’s entirely possible you could have a claim against the manufacturer or vendor of these products, and you should contact a personal injury lawyer from our offices right away.
To learn more about e-cigarettes and personal injury cases, or for information on any of our car accident, dog bite or other attorney services, speak to the staff at the offices of William Rawlings & Associates today.