Most people do not think twice about turning on a stove, plugging in a space heater, charging a phone, or starting a washing machine. Household appliances are woven into daily routines, offering convenience and efficiency. We rely on them without hesitation.
But when a product fails unexpectedly — sparks, overheats, explodes, or malfunctions — the consequences can be devastating. In Florida, defective household appliances are responsible for serious burn injuries, electrical shocks, house fires, and even wrongful deaths each year.
When these incidents occur, the question is not simply what went wrong — but who is legally responsible.
How Household Appliances Become Dangerous
Not every malfunction is grounds for a lawsuit. However, when an appliance is unreasonably dangerous due to a defect, Florida’s product liability laws may apply.
Defects generally fall into three categories:
- Design defects, where the product is inherently unsafe
- Manufacturing defects, caused during production or assembly
- Failure to warn, where adequate safety instructions or warnings are missing
For example, a space heater designed without proper overheating protection may pose a fire risk. A blender assembled with faulty wiring may cause electric shock. A battery-powered device with a design flaw may overheat and ignite.
In these situations, the danger often exists before the product ever reaches the consumer.
Common Appliances Linked to Serious Injuries
Many types of household products have been associated with injury claims, including:
- Space heaters
- Kitchen stoves and ovens
- Microwaves
- Washing machines and dryers
- Refrigerators with faulty wiring
- Lithium-ion battery devices
- Power strips and extension cords
- Air conditioning units
While these products are common, defects can transform everyday convenience into a serious hazard.
Burn Injuries and House Fires
One of the most severe outcomes of defective appliances is fire. Faulty wiring, overheating components, and electrical malfunctions can ignite quickly, especially in enclosed residential spaces.
Burn injuries from appliance-related fires may include:
- Second- and third-degree burns
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Smoke inhalation injuries
- Respiratory damage
- Long-term physical and emotional trauma
In apartment complexes or multi-family homes, a single defective appliance can endanger multiple families.
Electrical Shock and Internal Injuries
Not all defective appliance injuries involve visible flames. Electrical defects can cause serious internal injuries, including:
Because electricity-related injuries are not always immediately visible, victims sometimes underestimate the severity of harm.
Who May Be Held Responsible?
One of the key aspects of product liability cases is identifying all potentially responsible parties. Liability may extend beyond the store where the product was purchased.
Responsible parties can include:
Florida product liability law allows injured consumers to pursue claims without necessarily proving that the company intended harm — only that the product was defective and caused injury.
The Importance of Preserving Evidence
After an appliance malfunction, it is critical not to discard the product. The defective item itself often serves as essential evidence in proving a claim.
Key steps after an incident may include:
- Preserving the appliance in its damaged state
- Photographing the scene
- Seeking immediate medical attention
- Documenting injuries
- Avoiding product alterations or repairs
Proper investigation can determine whether the issue was isolated or part of a broader pattern.
The Financial and Emotional Impact of Defective Products
Serious injuries caused by defective appliances can disrupt every aspect of life. Victims may face:
In cases involving residential fires, families may also lose personal belongings and be forced to relocate temporarily or permanently.
Why Product Liability Cases Are Complex
Large manufacturers often have significant legal resources and insurance coverage. They may argue that:
- The product was misused
- The consumer altered the appliance
- The damage resulted from improper installation
- The injury was unrelated to the product
For this reason, product liability claims often require expert analysis, engineering evaluations, and careful legal strategy.
How Moore Payne Helps Victims of Defective Products
At Moore Payne, we understand that defective appliance injuries can feel especially unfair. Consumers trust that products sold in stores are safe for normal use. When that trust is broken, accountability matters.
Our firm works to:
- Investigate the design and manufacturing history of the product
- Consult engineering and safety experts
- Identify prior complaints or recalls
- Calculate the full extent of damages
- Pursue fair compensation for injured clients across Orlando and throughout Florida
We are committed to protecting consumers from unsafe products and holding negligent companies accountable.
Taking Action After a Defective Appliance Injury
If you or a loved one was injured by a malfunctioning household appliance in Florida, you may have legal options. Acting quickly can help preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Moore Payne stands ready to help victims of defective products pursue justice, accountability, and the compensation they deserve.
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