Lithium-Ion Battery Explosions and Fires: Who Can Be Held Liable?

Lithium-ion batteries power many everyday devices, ranging from e-bikes, lawn equipment and vape devices to laptops, cordless tools, EV chargers and home energy storage systems. These batteries are compact and long-lasting, but they are also inherently volatile. Explosions and fires are growing hazards nationwide.

A common reason for lithium-ion battery accidents is thermal runaway, a chain reaction in which rising heat triggers internal reactions. That can cause the battery to overheat, ignite or even explode. Manufacturing defects, such as contamination or internal damage during production, can also create unstable cells. Design defects, including inadequate ventilation or insufficient safeguards, may also increase the risks. Improper charging practices, such as using incompatible charges or leaving the battery where it is exposed to extreme temperatures, can further contribute to these incidents.

When lithium-ion batteries fail, they may start fires that spread rapidly and leak dangerous gases. Possible injuries include burns, illness from inhaling toxic fumes and explosion-related trauma. Victims may suffer eye injuries, hearing loss, traumatic brain injuries caused by percussive force, broken bones and burns. Fatalities are also possible.

Liability for these injuries can fall on any parties in the chain of distribution, including manufacturers, distributors and retailers. Companies that supplied pre-assembled battery systems or integrated the batteries into larger products can share liability. To recover compensation, injured parties need to prove that there was either a design defect, a manufacturing defect or inadequate warnings given to consumers. They must also show that they were using the product as it was intended to be used or in a reasonably foreseeable manner at the time of injury, and that the defect directly led to their losses. 

Lithium-ion battery cases are inherently complex and often require technical investigation. A skilled product liability attorney can help people injured in a lithium-ion battery accident quantify their losses, evaluate any insurance coverage available and build a case against the businesses responsible.

Jakubowski, Robertson, Maffei, Goldsmith & Tartaglia, LLP in St. James, NY represents Long Island residents who suffer injuries from unsafe products. To schedule a free initial consultation, call 631-360-0400 or contact us online.