What Happens When a Recalled Product Causes an Injury?

 Posted on July 30, 2025 in Product Liability

When a product is recalled, it usually signals a serious risk to consumers. But harm may occur before the recall or even after, if users are not aware of it. If you have been injured by a recalled product, you may be entitled to compensation through a product liability claim. A recall does not shield a manufacturer from liability. In many cases, it strengthens your legal case. If this applies to you or someone you care about, an Aurora, IL product liability lawyer can help.

Understanding Consumer Rights for Recalled Products

Illinois and federal law protect consumers harmed by unsafe products, even post‑recall. The Illinois Product Liability Act allows injured individuals to pursue compensation for injuries caused by defective design, manufacturing flaws, or inadequate warnings. Under 735 ILCS 5/13‑213, you generally have two years from the injury date and no more than 12 years from when the product left the seller's control to file a lawsuit. Federally, the Consumer Product Safety Act mandates the reporting of dangerous products and requires corrective action when hazards are identified.

Legal Options if You Are Injured By a Recalled Product in Illinois

If a product injures you, you may have a claim even if it was recalled, especially if you used it as intended. Claims typically fall into three categories:

• Design defect: There is inherent danger from the product’s design

• Manufacturing defect: There are flaws caused by production errors

• Failure to warn: There are inadequate instructions or hidden hazards

Under 735 ILCS 5/2‑621, retailers or distributors may be dismissed from lawsuits if they had no control over how a product was designed or manufactured. However, they must identify the manufacturer. An attorney experienced in product liability can help you identify who is directly responsible for your injuries.

Recent Examples of Major Product Recalls and Injuries in the U.S.

Product recalls happen often. In the last few months alone, the following high-profile product recalls occurred:

• SharkNinja "Foodi OP300" pressure cookers: In May 2025, this product was recalled after more than 100 users reported burn injuries, including serious second and third-degree burns. At least 26 lawsuits have been filed.

• Igloo Flip & Tow Rolling Coolers: Also in May 2025, Igloo issued an expanded recall of this product after receiving reports of at least 12 fingertip amputations and other serious injuries. The cooler’s handle posed a crushing hazard when pushed down.

• HydroTech Expandable Burst‑Proof Hoses: In July 2025, over 3.6 million HydroTech burst-proof garden hoses were recalled after numerous incidents of the hoses exploding during use. At least 29 people reported injuries ranging from hearing damage to bone bruises.

These incidents highlight the risks even commonly used products pose and the legal rights consumers retain.

Call Our Kane County, IL Product Liability Attorneys for a Free Consultation

If you have been injured by a recalled or defective product, do not wait to take action. At Kinnally Flaherty Krentz Loran Hodge & Masur P.C., our attorneys are among the top five percent in Illinois and are frequently designated Leading Lawyers or Super Lawyers by peer review. We are leaders in the legal community, serving as bar association presidents, members of Supreme Court statewide commissions, published legal authors, and educators invited to state and local legal programs.

Many of our lawyers have earned recognition for pro bono work and community service. We bring this depth of experience and reputation to every case. Contact us at 630-907-0909 to schedule a free consultation with our Aurora, IL product liability lawyers today.