Horizon Fitness Elliptical Malfunction Leads to Knee Injury and Consumer Dispute

If you or a loved one has been injured by defective exercise equipment, contact the Law Offices of Jason Turchin at (800) 337-7755 or visit www.victimaid.com for a free consultation. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Incident Overview

A consumer has allegedly reported a safety and customer service issue involving a Horizon Fitness EX-59 elliptical trainer, manufactured by Johnson Health Tech of North America. After purchasing the elliptical on November 29, 2024, the user allegedly discovered that the machine’s resistance was locked on a high setting and could not be adjusted. When the consumer’s 67-year-old wife attempted to use the elliptical as intended, the unyielding resistance caused her to strain her knee, leading to a medical evaluation.

Despite contacting the manufacturer shortly after the incident, the consumer reported that the company could not fix the equipment and delayed providing a promised refund. While Johnson Health Tech has since confirmed that a refund was processed, the situation illustrates both the physical risks and customer service challenges consumers may face when fitness equipment malfunctions.

The Dangers of Defective Exercise Equipment

Exercise equipment must function properly to ensure user safety. When features like resistance settings malfunction, users can experience sudden strain or injury, particularly older adults or those with mobility limitations. Potential risks include:

• Muscle and Joint Injuries – Excess resistance can place significant strain on knees, hips, and ankles, increasing the risk of sprains or tears.

• Falls and Imbalance – Users may lose balance or fall if the equipment does not respond as expected.

• Long-Term Damage – Knee injuries, particularly in older adults, may require extended recovery and even surgery.

Fitness equipment should include easily adjustable settings, accurate resistance levels, and prompt support from the manufacturer when problems arise.

Legal Implications of Defective Fitness Equipment

Manufacturers like Johnson Health Tech have a responsibility to provide safe, reliable products and accurate customer service. If their equipment causes injury due to a defect, consumers may have legal grounds for a product liability or personal injury claim under several legal theories:

Design Defect

If the elliptical’s resistance mechanism was prone to malfunction or difficult to adjust, it could indicate a design flaw.

Manufacturing Defect

If the specific unit had a resistance calibration or assembly error during production, the injury could be the result of a manufacturing defect.

Failure to Warn

If the machine did not include sufficient instructions or warnings about safe use or resistance issues, this could result in a failure-to-warn claim.

Compensation for Injuries From Faulty Exercise Equipment

If you or a loved one suffered an injury from a defective elliptical machine, you may be entitled to compensation such as:

• Medical Expenses – Coverage for exams, imaging, physical therapy, or surgery related to the injury.

• Pain and Suffering – Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of mobility.

• Lost Wages – If the injury prevented work or daily responsibilities, lost income may be recoverable.

• Product Refund or Replacement – Recovery for the cost of defective equipment and any associated damage.

What to Do If You’ve Been Injured by Home Fitness Equipment

• Stop Using the Product – Avoid further injury or damage.

• Document the Incident – Take photos of the equipment, injury, and any error messages or malfunction indicators.

• Seek Medical Attention – Early diagnosis and treatment can help avoid long-term complications.

• Preserve the Equipment – Keep the product for evidence in any potential legal claim.

• Report the Incident to the CPSC – Help protect other consumers by reporting safety concerns.

• Contact an Experienced Product Liability Attorney – Get legal advice on your rights and potential claims.

FAQs

Has the Horizon EX-59 Elliptical been recalled?

As of now, there has been no recall issued for the EX-59 model. However, consumers experiencing similar issues should report them to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

Can I file a claim if my injury didn’t require surgery?

Yes. Even injuries that result in pain or temporary mobility issues may justify compensation.

How do I prove the equipment was defective?

Photos, witness statements, expert evaluations, and product manuals can help establish that the equipment did not function as intended.

What types of damages can I claim in an injury case?

Medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and costs related to defective products may be recoverable.

How can the Law Offices of Jason Turchin help?

We have extensive experience handling personal injury and product liability claims. Our team can evaluate your case, communicate with the manufacturer, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Call (800) 337-7755 for a free consultation.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to defective exercise equipment like the Horizon Fitness EX-59 elliptical, don’t wait to explore your legal options. Contact the Law Offices of Jason Turchin at (800) 337-7755 to find out how we can help.