Philadelphia Power Tool Injury Lawyer

When you grab a saw, drill, or other power tools, you already know you must proceed cautiously. But what happens when you follow all the precautions and still end up hurt?

Sometimes, the tools may be defective, leading to unexpected injuries to do-it-yourselfers and professionals alike. In these cases, you may be able to pursue a product liability claim to recover damages.

At Laffey Bucci D’Andrea Reich & Ryan, we know many people get injured through no fault of their own. We are here to advocate for your rights.

If these devices have harmed you, make sure to reach out to our Philadelphia power tool injury lawyer. We can help you determine the best options for your case with a free consultation.

Types of Accidents Involving Power Tools

With an increase in home improvement projects, many people are turning to power tools to help with their jobs. Power tools are essential for various tasks, from construction and woodworking to home repairs. While it may seem easy to operate these devices, you still need to make sure to follow all safety protocols to prevent injuries.

Unfortunately, these tools can malfunction and cause injuries to unexpected users. According to the National Safety Council, 12.7 million people were treated in emergency departments for injuries resulting from consumer products, such as power tools. Some of the most common power tools that are known to lead to a trip to the emergency room include:

• Nail guns
• Chain saws
• Table saws
• Jig saws
• Band saws
• Circular saws
• Drills
• Snow blowers
• Push and riding lawnmowers
• Air compressors
• Power sanders
• Hoists, lifts, or jacks
• Welding and soldering torches
• Power washers

Injuries That These Tools Can Cause

The list of tools described above (and others) all have the ability to cause injuries, especially if they are defective.

These defective products can lead to:

• Lacerations: Cuts from sharp blades or moving parts, such as saws or drills, can cause deep wounds.
• Amputations: Chainsaws or table saws can sever fingers, hands, or even limbs in these cases.
• Fractures: Heavy machinery can tip over, leading to broken arms, legs, or ribs.
• Eye injuries: Flying debris from grinding, cutting, or drilling might cause damage to the eyes.
• Burns: Welding torches, soldering irons, and power sanders are known to cause thermal or chemical burns.
• Electrocution: Faulty tools or wiring can lead to electric shocks.

If you or a loved one have suffered an injury due to a faulty power tool, you may be able to recover compensation for your damages. A Philadelphia power tool injury lawyer can help you determine your next steps. So, reach out to us for a free case evaluation to better understand your rights.

Product Liability Law in Pennsylvania

When defective products injure innocent parties, those who design, manufacture, sell, service, or rent power tools are liable for their injuries. Many times, these cases fall into several distinct categories, such as:

Defective Design

All power tool designers must make sure their products are reasonably safe for their intended use. The company may be liable if a design flaw leads to accidents or injuries. Inadequate safety guards, poor ergonomics, or improper weight distribution are some of the defective designs that lead to injuries.

Defective Manufacturing

Also, the products’ manufacturers are responsible for producing power tools according to their intended design specifications. Faulty wiring and weak materials are considered manufacturing defects. The manufacturer could be liable if these defects make it through the production process to the consumer.

Inadequate Warnings

All power tools should have a warning about the potential risk of using them. When companies fail to warn operators about electrical hazards, blade contact, or kickback hazards, they may be liable in these cases. Along with that, proper instruction for maintenance and the safe operation of these products needs to be provided. Failure to do so puts the company’s liability on the line.

Ordinary Negligence (Repair/Reconditioning)

Any company or individual that services, repairs, or reconditions power tools has a duty to perform these tasks with reasonable care. If they fail to fix a component, which leads to a safety hazard, they could be responsible for any injuries. Even businesses and retailers that rent equipment could be held accountable if the product harmed the user or another person.

In Pennsylvania, the law follows the principles of strict liability for defective products. With that, you need to prove that the product was defective and caused you injuries. Liability parties include any entity or person in the chain of distribution, such as:

• Manufacturers
• Distributors
• Retailers
• Equipment rental companies
• Power tool maintenance/service companies

In these power tool accidents, you may be able to file a product liability or negligent repair claim against the parties involved.

Workplace Accidents

While most of these cases occur in non-professional settings, workplace accidents are common. Any worker injured on the job is entitled to worker’s compensation. In these cases, their medical expenses and a portion of lost wages are covered. However, if a third party, such as a tool manufacturer or repair company, was negligent, you may be able to pursue a product liability lawsuit.

With that, you can seek additional compensation for benefits not provided under workers’ compensation laws.

If you are injured, contact Laffey Bucci D’Andrea Reich & Ryan. Our legal team has experience with workers’ compensation, product liability, and personal injury cases. We can help you determine the appropriate legal strategy for your situation.

Recoverable Damages

If you have been injured, you have probably faced substantial medical costs and even lost wages due to this accident. Fortunately, you have the right to pursue legal action against those responsible parties. Some of the damages available may include:

• Compensation for medical bills related to your injuries, including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
• If your injuries caused you to miss work, you can claim lost wages for past and current income.
• You may be eligible for reimbursement if the accident damaged your clothing, tools, or other personal property.

While those are economic losses suffered as the result of a power tool accident, you may be able to recover non-economic damages as well.

• Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish resulting from the accident.
• If your injuries, such as amputation, impact your quality of life, you can recover compensation for scarring and disfigurement.
• Any injuries affecting your relationship with your spouse or family members may recur under loss of consortium.

In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded. However, these awards are not typical and only occur in rare instances of gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

If you’ve been injured in a power tool accident, consult an attorney experienced in personal injury law. A Philadelphia power tool attorney lawyer can help assess your situation and help you take those next steps.

Steps To Take After a Power Tool Accident

Taking the right steps after a power tool accident can protect your health, legal rights, and overall well-being.

You will want to get help for any injuries. If the injury is severe, call for emergency medical assistance. After your treatment, make sure to follow any recommended treatments, medications, or physical therapy. Keep records of medical visits, bills, and treatment plans. These records will be important for any insurance claims or legal proceedings.

If you want to pursue a product liability claim, you will need evidence. You may want to photograph the accident scene, the power tool involved, and your injuries. Remember, do not discard the power tool or make any alterations. You need to keep the device for the investigation and to determine the cause of the accident.

Additionally, if you have been involved in a power tool accident, get legal advice from an experienced personal injury attorney. They can help you determine whether you have the basis to file a product liability claim against a third party.

These legal professionals can also calculate damages, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate on your behalf throughout the process. With their help, you have a better chance of getting the compensation you deserve.

Getting the Help You Need for Power Tool Accidents

With over 40 years of combined legal experience, the legal team at Laffey Bucci D’Andrea Reich & Ryan is ready to take on your case. Over the years, we have received numerous awards for our legal services. From workers’ compensation claims to personal injury lawsuits, we can help you determine the right option for your situation.

Contact our office to schedule a consultation with our experienced Philadelphia power tool injury lawyer. We can help you get the justice that you deserve in these cases.