Defective Bed Traps And Fatally Suffocates Woman
Mother of Two Dies After Mattress Platform Suddenly Collapses, Trapping Her Neck
Misfortune often comes unexpectedly. Such was the case with Helen Davey, a 38-year-old woman who suffocated when an Ottoman-style bed fell on her neck. According to the coroner’s report, the bed malfunctioned and eventually asphyxiated the victim. This is yet another defective product accident involving faulty bed cases.
The events unfolded in June last year when Davey, a mother of two, was storing things in the ottoman bed in her bedroom. One of the two gas-lift hydraulic pistons used to access the storage space suddenly collapsed while the woman was looking in with part of her body in the space.
According to the coroner in the case, Jeremy Chipperfield, the platform and mattress fell unexpectedly. Due to a faulty lifting system and the heavy weight, Davey was unable to free her, and she died of positional asphyxia. The victim’s daughter found her with her head trapped and her legs bent.
Both the coroner and other investigators have reported the facts and stressed that there is a matter of concern about possible injuries. Chipperfield also stated that the “existence and use of gas piston bed mechanisms poses a risk to life.”
Following the tragic event, defective beds have come under scrutiny from the media and consumers. What is the real risk of certain products? Is this an isolated incident or are there other similar accidents? How does California’s personal injury law deal with defective products? Can an injured victim or their family sue for product liability?
In this blog, we will discuss the legal options related to defective products and how an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you reach a satisfactory settlement. If you or someone you know has been injured by a defective product, call us today at (800) 310 1606. You can also schedule a free consultation online.
Are Ottoman Beds Dangerous?
Ottoman or lift-up beds have recently become an interesting alternative for many people. They are a popular choice for those who need extra space in their home. It looks like a traditional bed, but there is space for storage under the mattress and platform.
These beds use a powerful hydraulic gas lift mechanism to raise the mattress and base. Two gas pistons on each side raise or lower the top of the bed, requiring minimal effort from the user to open or close the bed.
Although the system is designed to be safe, recent tragic stories have been linked to bed failures that have claimed the lives of several people or caused very serious injuries.
In cases like Helen Davey’s, legal help is essential. It allows victims and their families to fight for compensation and seek justice so that the responsible party pays for their negligence.
What Does a Defective Product Mean?
Understanding what a defective product is is key to dealing with an injury accident. It is also important to understand the definition of product liability and how the laws work in California.
Generally speaking, a defective product is any item that does not guarantee or provide the safety that the consumer rightfully deserves.
In California, product liability laws make everyone involved in the process of creating the product liable for any injuries that occur. This means that the designer, manufacturer, distributor, or seller may be responsible for injuries caused by the product.
Indeed, California law is against selling faulty products. If you or a family member has been injured, contact an experienced attorney to learn about your consumer rights regarding defective products. These professionals will guide you through the process of filing an injury claim.
What Are Furniture Manufacturers Responsible For?
Furniture manufacturers can be held liable in personal injury cases for selling a defective product. It does not matter whether the negligence was in design, manufacture, or distribution. In addition, there may be more than one party responsible for the negligence of the defective products.
But how do companies deal with injuries caused by defective products? Usually, especially large companies such as Amazon or Target, these companies offer a quick and low settlement to injured consumers. But accepting this settlement is a mistake. The compensation is often inadequate and does not take into account the victim’s actual damages.
To avoid making the wrong decision, victims of defective products should first speak to product liability lawyers. They will be able to provide all the information and legal options relating to the case. They can also explain whether the victim can recover compensation for emotional and personal damages under product liability law.
Injured by a Defective Product? Call Us Now
Adamson Ahdoot is a leading product liability law firm in California. With over 100 years of combined legal experience, our injury lawyers are committed to fighting for the rights of accident victims.
If you have an injury case, don’t hesitate to call us at (800) 310-1606. Our lawyers have extensive experience in obtaining highly successful settlements in defective product cases. Our bilingual team is available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have. We will provide you with a complete service from start to finish. We will not charge you until we have secured fair compensation.
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