In the past several weeks, vaping-related lung injuries and deaths have captured national headlines. There have been 7 reported deaths and the CDC reports that an additional 380 confirmed and probable cases have been identified across 36 states during the recent outbreak, including 3 patients in the Houston area. While an underlying cause has yet to be determined, some evidence suggests modified cannabis vape pens may partially be to blame.
The highly lucrative vaping market has grown exponentially in the past decade from roughly 7 million users in 2011 to over 41 million in 2018. Due to a wide variety of e-liquid flavors that include blueberry, mango and cinnamon, many of these users are teens and young adults. The recent crisis has prompted the CDC and American Medical Association to urge users against vaping altogether.
The legal fallout from these developments is still unclear. However, if tangible evidence can connect vaping manufacturers to short and long-term illnesses and deaths, costly and protracted lawsuits can be expected, not unlike the tobacco litigation of the 80’s, 90’s and 2000s, which included a landmark case that ordered Philip Morris to pay $51.5 million to a California smoker with inoperable lung cancer.
Ben Bronston & Associates represents clients injured as the result of the negligence or wrongdoing of others. Practice areas include auto accidents, explosions, premise liability (slip & falls), wrongful death and product liability. Vapers who are experiencing unusual respiratory symptoms should feel free to call our office to discuss their options in the event their health problems persist. Our attorneys have extensive experience dealing with cases involving exposure to harmful products.
To reach our office, you may fill out our online Case Evaluation Form, or call us directly at 713-CALL-BEN (713-225-5236).
