Power Tool Battery Explosion Lawsuits

Legal Help for Victims of Power Tool Battery Fires and Explosions

Power tools are essential for construction workers, tradespeople, and DIY enthusiasts. They save time, increase productivity, and make challenging jobs easier. However, when the lithium-ion batteries that power these tools fail, the results can be devastating. Fires and explosions from defective or damaged power tool batteries can cause serious injuries, property damage, and even fatalities.

At the Law Offices of Jason Turchin, our team has handled complex product liability claims, and can handle those involving defective batteries in tools made by well-known brands such as DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, and Ryobi. If you or a loved one was injured by a power tool battery fire or explosion, you may have legal options to pursue compensation.

Why Power Tool Batteries Pose Fire and Explosion Risks

Most cordless power tools rely on lithium-ion battery packs. These batteries store a large amount of energy in a compact space, allowing tools to operate without being tethered to a cord. While efficient, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, ignite, or explode under certain conditions.

Factors that contribute to battery fires and explosions:

• Manufacturing defects – Poor assembly, contamination, or faulty wiring inside the battery pack.
• Design flaws – Inadequate ventilation or placement of cells too close together without sufficient cooling.
• Overcharging – Faulty charging circuits or use of non-compatible chargers.
• Physical damage – Drops, impacts, or punctures that damage internal cells.
• Counterfeit batteries – Low-quality knockoffs that lack critical safety mechanisms.

When a battery experiences thermal runaway — a rapid chain reaction that generates intense heat — it may catch fire or explode within seconds.

Injuries from Power Tool Battery Fires

When a lithium-ion battery in a power tool fails, it can cause significant harm:

• Burns – From flames or hot gases released during failure.
• Blast injuries – Including hearing damage, concussions, or fractures from the explosion.
• Lacerations – Caused by flying metal or plastic fragments.
• Smoke inhalation – Leading to respiratory injury or distress.
• Scarring or disfigurement
• Wrongful death – In severe cases.

Because power tools are often used in close proximity to the body — especially in the hands, lap, or against the chest — injuries can be extensive.

Who Could Be Held Liable?

Responsibility for a defective power tool battery may involve multiple parties:

• Battery manufacturer – For defective cell design, assembly issues, or lack of safety features.
• Tool manufacturer – For using unsafe battery packs or failing to provide proper warnings.
• Retailer – For selling defective tools or aftermarket batteries.
• Importer/distributor – For bringing unsafe products into the U.S. without adequate testing.
• Charger manufacturer – If a defective or incompatible charger contributed to the failure.

A thorough investigation may reveal that several parties share liability.

Steps to Take After a Power Tool Battery Fire or Explosion

If you are injured by a power tool battery:

1. Seek medical care – Burns and other injuries require immediate attention.
2. Preserve the evidence – Keep the tool, battery, charger, and any packaging in a safe location.
3. Document the incident – Take photos of your injuries, the damaged tool, and any property damage.
4. Gather purchase records – Save receipts, warranty cards, and product manuals.
5. Consider legal help – An attorney with experience in product liability cases may be able to help secure evidence before it is lost.

Possible Compensation

Victims of power tool battery fires and explosions may be able to pursue compensation for:

• Medical expenses, including surgeries and rehabilitation
• Lost wages or reduced earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Property damage
• Wrongful death damages for surviving family members

The amount recoverable depends on the circumstances of the incident and the extent of your injuries.

Preventing Power Tool Battery Fires

While manufacturers are responsible for making safe products, users can take steps that may reduce risk:

• Use only manufacturer-approved chargers and batteries.
• Store batteries in cool, dry environments.
• Avoid exposing batteries to extreme heat or cold.
• Inspect batteries regularly for swelling, leaks, or damage.
• Stop using the battery if it becomes excessively hot or shows signs of wear.

Even with these precautions, a defective battery can still fail — which is why holding manufacturers accountable remains important.

Why Contact the Law Offices of Jason Turchin

Our firm has handled numerous defective product cases involving lithium-ion batteries in various consumer goods. We can work with engineers, fire investigators, and other professionals to investigate the cause of a battery failure and identify all responsible parties. We handle cases nationwide and operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no fees or costs unless compensation is recovered.

For more on how defective product claims work, visit our Product Liability page on JasonTurchin.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

What brands of power tools have had battery recalls?
Brands such as DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Ryobi, and others could have had recalls due to battery issues if there are any defects. However, recalls do not cover all defective products in circulation.

Do I need to have the battery for a claim?
Preserving the battery is helpful for investigation. Even if it is damaged, it can be analyzed by experts to determine the cause of failure.

What if the tool was old or out of warranty?
Warranty status does not necessarily impact your ability to file a product liability claim.

Can I sue if I was using an aftermarket battery?
Yes, if the aftermarket battery was defective, you may be able to bring a claim against its manufacturer or seller.

How quickly should I act after a battery fire?
It is generally best to take action promptly. Evidence can be lost or destroyed over time, and legal deadlines can bar your claim if you wait too long.

Can property damage alone be the basis of a lawsuit?
Yes, property damage claims can be brought even without personal injury, though the compensation structure may differ.

Contact the Law Offices of Jason Turchin – Power Tool Battery Fire Lawyers

If you or a loved one has been injured by a power tool battery fire or explosion, you may have legal options. Our team has handled product liability cases nationwide and may be able to help you pursue compensation for your losses.

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