Swedish furniture giant IKEA has issued a voluntary recall of a large portion of their selection of chests and dressers due to a serious risk of injuries, particularly to children. IKEA cites the failure of the pieces to meet the performance requirements of voluntary U.S. industry standards.
In a release posted on their website, IKEA noted “The recalled chests and dressers are unstable if they are not properly anchored to the wall, posing a tip-over and entrapment hazard that can result in death or injuries to children.” Specifically, IKEA has indicated the recall primarily affects the MALM line, a popular series sold in the U.S. through June 2016. However, the recall also covers several dozen models across almost every line the brand has recently manufactured.
The recall is a simple one to repair. The company has invited all owners to contact them and order a wall-anchoring kit, free of charge. These wall-anchoring kits will secure the furniture and prevent it tipping over, thus ensuring safe use and operation.
For customers who cannot or do not wish to secure their furniture to the wall, IKEA has offered to issue either a full or partial refund.
Defective Product Injuries
IKEA acknowledged the danger these pieces of furniture presented, specifically to children. The chests and dressers were designed in a way that did not encourage the pieces to remain standing upright. If too much weight was placed in one of the upper drawers, or a child decides to climb on the furniture, not recognizing the danger, the pieces would be prone to tipping over, potentially trapping them and causing serious injuries.
This is just one recent example of a product recall due to a poor design. Products that do not properly perform their functions, or do so in a way that still presents danger to users, can potentially cause serious injuries, making manufacturers liable for damages. When you are hurt by a defective product in this way, it is important that you retain the services of a Houston personal injury attorney to help you secure compensation for your injuries.
Sico, Hoelscher, Harris, & Braugh, LLP have assisted clients all across the nation who have been affected by injuries caused by recalled and defective products for many years. Our team of personal injury lawyers take a fearless and aggressive approach to your case and we pride ourselves on supporting you with award-winning quality representation both in and out of the courtroom. Our attorneys have earned several prestigious awards including Board Certification in Personal Injury Trial Law from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, and an AV® Preeminent™ rating from Mardindale-Hubbell®.
Call the Sico, Hoelscher, Harris, & Braugh, LLP at 877.653.3334 to schedule a free consultation if you have been injured.