Recently, news reports described new harrowing details following a Florida Tesla crash that occurred last September. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) conducted an investigation and reported that that the car flew through a yellow light at around 90 miles per hour. The speed limit in the neighborhood was 30 mph. Apparently, as the driver approached reached the intersection, he hit the accelerator to 100%. The driver then sped through the light and slammed into two trees in succession. Following the impact, the car’s battery exploded and burst into flames. The fire reignited at least one time which caused firefighters to experience challenges when trying to extinguish the explosion. The 20-year-old driver and his 19-year-old passenger died at the scene of the accident.
Tesla is frequently under fire for its self-driving or “autonomous” driving options. Many argue that these functions are not nearly as safe as the company touts, and a lack of driver experience and company oversight leads to deadly consequences. However, this accident seems to involve another issue concerning lithium batteries. The NTSB has repeatedly voiced concerns about lithium battery fires in aircraft, Teslas, and other vehicles. The agency has issued safety recommendations urging regulators, manufacturers, and firefighters to prevent and prepare for these types of fires.
Lithium-ion batteries have been the source of highly publicized investigations and recalls. Lithium is the lightest metal with the least dense solid element thereby creating a high-energy-density. This density allows lithium to store more energy over a longer time, compared to traditional batteries. Despite this benefit, the battery poses a serious danger because of its combustible material. A single cell can get hot to the point where it catches fire and spreads to the next cell. This “thermal runaway” effect essentially makes the battery easily catch fire or explode quickly.
Manufacturers that learn that their product resulted in a fire, explosion, or personal injury should take steps to limit consumer dangers by notifying and potentially recalling their products. However, injury victims who suffer damages because of a lithium battery fire in Florida should conduct an attorney to discuss their rights and remedies. While many companies try to avoid liability by hiding behind warnings and product recalls, these efforts may not be enough. An attorney can assist injury victims in presenting a legally sound and compelling case
Have You Suffered Injuries Because of an Unsafe Product?
If you or someone you love has suffered injuries or died in an accident contact Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, P.A. Our law firm has been successfully representing Florida injury victims for over 40 years. The lawyers at our office have extensive experience with the ever-evolving nature of the state’s personal injury and wrongful death law in the state. We provide clients with excellent individualized representation, ensuring that they recover the damages the law entitles them. Our firm handles cases stemming from Florida motor vehicle accidents, defective or dangerous products, medical malpractice, nursing home abuse and neglect, premises liability, and more. Contact our office at 877-448-8585, to schedule a free initial consultation with an attorney on our team.