Power Tool Malfunction Injuries: What to Know if a Drill, Saw, or Nail Gun Fails
Power tools make construction, home improvement, and maintenance work faster and more efficient. Over the years, these power tools, such as cordless drills and circular saws, have become more common. When power tools malfunction, an individual’s entire life can change. Understanding the safety risks of power tools is key to decreasing injuries that can be life-threatening.
Why Power Tool Injuries Are Often Serious
Power tools pose a serious safety risk as they often rotate at high speeds and rely on electrical currents. Consequences of power tool failures are usually severe and cause significant or life-threatening injuries. Common injuries from malfunctioning power tools include the following:
- Deep cuts and severed tendons
- Finger or limb amputations
- Eye injuries from flying debris
- Electrical shock or burns
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Puncture wounds from misfiring nail guns
When an Injury May Involve a Defective Product
Individuals using power tools should always take precautionary measures to ensure they are keeping themselves and others safe from danger. Product liability laws grant individuals who have suffered injuries from power tools the opportunity to pursue a legal case. This may happen when a power tool is unreasonably dangerous and poses significant harm to the user. The three types of product defects include the following:
1. Design Defects
When power tools have design defects, it creates dangerous and unsafe environments for individuals. These design defects happen when the power tool’s blueprint is unsafe. Examples of this include the following:
- A saw lacking a reliable blade guard system
- A nail gun capable of firing without trigger pressure
- A drill that overheats during ordinary use
2. Manufacturing Defects
Defects in manufacturing happen when something goes wrong during the production period of the power tool. Manufacturing defects usually involve a specific batch of products as opposed to every product that has been sold. Examples of this include the following:
- Internal wiring was incorrectly installed
- Missing safety components
- Improper assembly of trigger mechanisms
3. Failure to Warn (Inadequate Instructions)
Manufacturers are required to provide adequate warnings and instructions on how to operate these tools. If individuals suffer injuries from inadequate warnings, liability may fall on the company. This can happen if the company knew or reasonably knew about a serious risk but failed to warn users. Examples of this include the following:
- Missing warnings about kickback risks
- Lack of instructions for proper guard installation
- Failure to disclose overheating hazards
Who May Be Legally Responsible?
Many people assume only the manufacturer of the product can be held accountable for damages and injuries. In reality, several parties may potentially share responsibility depending on the facts:
- The product manufacturer
- A parts manufacturer
- The distributor or wholesaler
- A retail seller or hardware store
- A company that modified or rebranded the tool
Product liability law frequently focuses on the product itself rather than proving negligence by a specific individual.
Evidence That Can Help Support a Claim
Documentation is key when dealing with power tool injuries. Individuals should understand what happened and record the scene to ensure that the correct parties are held liable for the injuries caused. Evidence that may be helpful includes the following:
- The power tool itself
- Photographs of the scene and injuries
- Receipts or purchase records
- Packaging and manuals
- Witness statements
- Medical records
- Prior complaints or recalls involving the same model
Workplace Injuries vs. Product Liability
Workers’ compensation may cover medical care, as many power tool injuries occur at the workplace. These workplace settings include construction, carpentry, and maintenance. Product liability claims are separate from workers’ compensation claims; however, if appropriate, the injured worker may pursue both at the same time.
Types of Losses Considered
When a defective tool is involved, damages considered in a claim may include:
- Medical treatment costs
- Future medical care
- Rehabilitation or physical therapy
- Lost income or reduced earning ability
- Permanent disability
- Pain and physical limitations
What to Do After a Power Tool Injury
Individuals suffering power tool injuries should consider seeking immediate medical attention to avoid future harm. Individuals may also:
- Preserve the tool exactly as it was after the incident
- Avoid attempting repairs or alterations
- Keep packaging, manuals, and receipts
- Document the injury and scene with photographs
- Write down what happened while memories are fresh
- Avoid giving recorded statements to product insurers without understanding the implications
How an Attorney May Assist
Seeking the proper legal guidance can help individuals suffering injuries from power tool malfunctions to understand their rights and options moving forward. An experienced attorney can help guide you through the legal process, ultimately allowing you to focus on recovering from your injuries.
How KAASS LAW Can Help
At KAASS LAW, we understand the challenges that come with injuries caused by power tool malfunctions and determining who is liable for damages. Our experienced personal injury attorneys will guide clients through the legalities of their case and make them aware of their rights. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries from power tool malfunctions, you are not alone. Call KAASS LAW today to discuss your options.