Bronx, NY - Lithium-ion Battery Sparked Apartment Fire That Injured One Firefighter

Firefighter Injured in Apartment Fire Sparked By Lithium-ion Battery

ABC 7 has reported that a fire broke out in an apartment building on Grand Concourse in the Fordham Heights area of the Bronx, New York. 

Just after 2 a.m. on Saturday, January 8, 2022, a fire started in a restaurant on the first floor of the apartment building. Fire investigators determined that the lithium-ion battery from either an e-bike or electric scooter sparked the fire. Dozens of residents were able to get out unharmed. One firefighter was injured while putting out the fire that reached the roof of the four-story building. It took firefighters until 5 a.m. to get the fire under control. 

Lawsuits for Lithium Battery Fire Injuries

Attorney contributor Laurence Banville is an experienced fire injury attorney. He has represented many cases of fire injuries caused by lithium-ion batteries. During a recent discussion, he highlighted some of the legal options available to injured victims and their families, including who can be held liable for lithium-ion battery fires.

"Lithium-ion batteries are in many of the electronics that we use on a daily basis. These can include cell phones, laptops, vaping devices, e-bikes, electric scooters, hoverboards, and so much more. Most people are unaware of the threat they may pose to their safety. These batteries can become overheated due to their sensitivity to heat and quickly become a fire hazard. However, manufacturing defects can lead to the batteries exploding and causing destructive damage, such as building fires."

"Unfortunately, over 5,000 fires have occurred each year due to lithium batteries since 2014. The FDA has been working to combat these hazards by publishing many tips on how to avoid having these batteries explode. However, it is a manufacturer's duty to ensure their products are safe for consumers. This includes the design and manufacturing process. When safety is neglected, a manufacturer can be held liable."

"Victims of lithium battery explosions have the legal right to inquire if the manufacturer was aware of the dangers yet continued to sell the product. An experienced fire injury attorney can help victims navigate the legal process and determine who can be held accountable for building fires started by lithium-ion batteries."

Sources:

ABC 7

https://justiceguardians.legalexaminer.com/legal/bronx-apartment-fire-sparked-by-lithium-ion-battery-injured-one/