A research study indicates that over 11 million people in the United States are now using e-cigarettes or “vaping.” Shockingly, while the number of users continues to increase exponentially, there are little to no safety regulations regarding the actual product and the actual device used to vape. Injuries are so incredibly common that Alaska is the only state in the United States that has not reported a vaping-related lung injury. Reported incidents regarding not only lung injuries, but also the explosion of the devices themselves are all still on the rise. In fact, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has now collected reports of hundreds of vaping explosions in the United States. Learn more about the two ways that users can become seriously injured due to vaping.
Lung-Related Vaping Injuries
In 2019, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) distributed information regarding the increase of lung-related injuries that were directly caused by vaping. Some doctors and physicians may find it difficult to determine the differences between upper respiratory infections, influenza (the flu) or lung injuries that are related to vaping. There are specific indications given now by the DCD that associate symptoms with vaping injuries. Unfortunately, this problem continues to grow throughout the United States.
Explosions of Vaping Devices
Many people do not think that any explosions of vaping devices could cause any serious damage. However, these vaping explosions are often related to the lithium-ion batteries contained within the e-cigarette or vaping device. Some of the types of vaping explosions may occur as a result of the following:
- During the actual use of the e-cigarette or vaping device, the device explodes causing substantial harm to the hands, fingers, arms, head, and neck area of the user.
- As the e-cigarette or vaping device is being charged, it overheats and causes an explosion.
- While in transport in a purse, pocket, or on a person directly, the e-cigarette or vaping device can explode causing catastrophic injuries.
More Regulations Will be Coming
Even as recently as January 2020, The Food and Drug Administration banned certain types of flavored nicotine vaping products. Many underage and teenagers were using these e-cigarettes and vaping products, and this was an attempt by the federal government to curb the use of these products by minors. Additionally, as lung injuries continue to rise, as well as explosions of vaping devices, it is likely that the states and federal governments will continue to examine this area of nicotine use in order to establish even stricter regulations. These devices are causing serious injuries and deaths, and need to have much greater oversight and regulation.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
If you suffered any injuries related to an e-cigarette or vaping accident, contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Griggs Injury Law at (816) 474-0202 who have experience regarding personal injury cases. Learn your legal rights, and how to ensure that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
