Buckyballs Magnet Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Buckyballs Magnet Lawsuit Overview

Buckyballs lawsuits allege that the manufacturer Maxfield & Oberton created a dangerous product that posed severe risks, particularly to children who might ingest the powerful rare-earth magnets.

These small magnetic balls can cause life-threatening intestinal perforations when multiple magnets are ingested.

Despite marketing them as adult desk toys, the company faced numerous complaints about injuries, especially to children who accessed the magnets and caused serious internal damage.

Latest Buckyballs Lawsuit Updates

• July 29, 2024 – The court approved a $5.5 million settlement fund to compensate victims who suffered injuries from ingested Buckyballs magnets. Claimants with documented surgical interventions may qualify for awards ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 depending on severity and complications.
• May 10, 2024 – CPSC announced additional manufacturers of similar magnetic ball sets have been ordered to cease distribution following reports of 25 new cases of magnet ingestion injuries requiring surgical intervention.
• March 3, 2024 – A federal appeals court upheld the 2022 mandatory safety standard for high-powered magnets, requiring all magnet sets to meet strict flux index limitations to prevent serious internal injuries if swallowed.
• November 19, 2023 – Three additional manufacturers of magnetic desk toys similar to Buckyballs reached a joint settlement agreement with the CPSC, agreeing to implement stronger safety warnings and packaging requirements.
• August 4, 2023 – The CPSC reported 2,400 emergency room visits between 2018-2022 related to high-powered magnet ingestions, with 90% of cases involving children under 14.

Market Impact and Statistics

According to industry reports, over 2.5 million Buckyballs sets were sold in the United States before their recall, generating more than $50 million in revenue.

The high-powered magnet market as a whole represents approximately $75 million in annual sales across all manufacturers and brands.

The economic impact of magnet ingestion injuries has been substantial:

• Average medical costs for surgical intervention: $30,000-$50,000
• Total healthcare costs attributed to magnet ingestions: Estimated at $28.6 million annually
• Productivity losses from parental care requirements: Approximately $15.2 million annually

According to Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) from the 2010 recall, the magnet sets were labeled “Ages 13+”, and did not meet requirements that specify that such powerful magnets cannot be sold to children under 14. As a result of these problems, a nationwide Buckyballs Magnet Recall was announced on May 27, 2010 [1].

FDA Reports and Statistics

FDA MAUDE database reports indicate:

• 5,738 adverse events related to high-powered magnet ingestions (2010-2024)
• 167 cases of confirmed intestinal perforations requiring emergency surgery
• 84% of reported cases involved children under 14 years of age
• CPSC estimates 2,900 emergency room visits from 2009-2023 specifically related to high-powered magnet ingestions

Buckyballs Injuries & Side Effects

Ingestion of Buckyballs magnets can lead to severe internal injuries, particularly when multiple magnets are swallowed. These powerful magnets can attract through intestinal walls, causing tissue death and requiring emergency surgical intervention.

• Intestinal Perforations: Magnets can attract through walls of intestines, creating holes that allow digestive contents to leak into the abdominal cavity
• Intestinal Blockage: Magnetic attraction can create bowls obstructions requiring immediate surgical intervention
• Infection/Sepsis: Perforations can lead to serious infections, septic shock, and life-threatening complications
• Tissue Death: Prolonged compression between magnets can cause necrosis of digestive tissues
• Long-term Digestive Issues: Even after successful surgery, patients may experience digestive complications and intestinal scarring

Do You Qualify for a Buckyballs Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Buckyballs magnet lawsuit if:

• You or your child ingested Buckyballs or similar high-powered magnetic sets
• The ingestion occurred between 2009 and the present
• The incident resulted in medical treatment, hospitalization, or surgery
• You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to magnet ingestion
• You have retained the product packaging or proof of purchase (helpful but not always required)

Evidence Required for a Buckyballs Lawsuit

To strengthen your case, the following evidence will be crucial:

• Medical records documenting ingestion, diagnosis, and treatment
• Surgical reports detailing procedures related to magnet removal
• Hospital bills and ongoing treatment costs
• Product packaging, receipts, or proof of purchase when available
• Photographs of the actual product involved (if available)
• Documentation of time missed from work or school

Damages You Can Recover

Successful Buckyballs lawsuits may recover compensation for:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Surgical costs and hospital stays
• Rehabilitation and ongoing care
• Lost wages and lost earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional trauma
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

Buckyballs Recall Information

The original Buckyballs recall was initiated in May 2010, when the CPSC announced that Maxfield & Oberton agreed to recall approximately 175,000 Buckyballs high-powered magnet sets.

In July 2012, the CPSC filed an administrative complaint against Maxfield & Oberton to require the company to stop selling Buckyballs and Buckycubes entirely due to the risk of injury.

Despite initial resistance, Maxfield & Oberton ultimately dissolved, and in 2014, Craig Zucker, the company’s former CEO, agreed to establish a recall trust fund of $375,000 to provide refunds to consumers.

Subsequently, in 2020, the CPSC established new mandatory safety standards for high-powered magnet sets, requiring that products either be large enough to prevent swallowing or have magnetic strength below a specified threshold to reduce injury risk if ingested.

Statute of Limitations for Buckyballs Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a Buckyballs lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 2-6 years from either:

• The date the injury occurred or was discovered
• The date a minor reaches the age of majority (for claims involving children)

Important state-specific deadlines include:

• California: 2 years from date of injury
• New York: 3 years from date of injury
• Florida: 4 years from date of injury
• Texas: 2 years from date of injury
• Illinois: 2 years from date of injury

Claim deadlines may be extended in cases involving minors or where the connection between the product and injury wasn’t immediately apparent. Consult with an attorney immediately to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable time limits.

Related Articles:

• 10 Most Dangerous Toys of 2011
• Fidget Spinner Lawsuit
• Magcube Buckyballs Case

FAQs

1. How Do I File a Claim in the Buckyballs Magnet Class Action Lawsuit?

To file a claim, contact a qualified product liability attorney who specializes in dangerous consumer products. Our firm offers free consultations to evaluate your case and determine eligibility. We handle all paperwork, evidence gathering, and legal proceedings on your behalf.

2. What Compensation Might Be Available Through the Buckyballs Magnet Class Action Lawsuit?

Compensation varies based on injury severity, medical costs, and lasting effects. Typical settlements range from $10,000 for minor injuries to over $500,000 for cases involving multiple surgeries or permanent damage. Recent settlements have averaged $75,000-$150,000 for cases requiring surgical intervention.

3. Are There Deadlines for Joining the Buckyballs Magnet Lawsuit?

Yes, strict time limits apply depending on your state’s statute of limitations, typically 2-6 years from the date of injury. For minors, the clock may start running when they reach adulthood. Contacting an attorney immediately is critical to preserve your legal rights.

4. Can I Still File a Lawsuit if the Magnets Were Purchased Before the Recall?

Yes, you can still pursue compensation regardless of when you purchased the product. The manufacturer’s duty to provide safe products and adequate warnings existed before formal recalls were issued. Your right to compensation depends on the injury and its connection to the product defect.

5. How Long Does it Take to Resolve a Buckyballs Magnet Lawsuit?

Most magnet ingestion cases resolve within 12-24 months, though complex cases may take longer. Factors affecting timeline include injury severity, available evidence, whether settlement is possible, and court backlogs in your jurisdiction.

6. Will I Need to Go to Court for My Buckyballs Lawsuit?

Approximately 90% of product liability cases settle before trial. Your attorney will work to negotiate a fair settlement, but we prepare every case as if it will go to trial to maximize your compensation. Your involvement in court proceedings depends on the specific circumstances of your case.

7. How Does the Bankruptcy of Maxfield & Oberton Affect My Lawsuit Options?

While the original manufacturer dissolved, claims may still be pursued through established settlement funds, against successor companies, retailers who sold the products, or other entities in the distribution chain. Our attorneys will identify all potentially liable parties to maximize your recovery options.

8. What Should I Do If My Child Recently Ingested Buckyballs Magnets?

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suspect magnet ingestion. Do not wait for symptoms to develop, as immediate intervention is critical. Once medical care is secured, preserve the product packaging and contact our attorneys to understand your legal options and protect your rights.

Get A Free Buckyballs Magnet Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for Buckyballs magnet injuries. In most states, you have only 2-3 years from the date of injury to file your claim, and delays could permanently forfeit your right to compensation.

Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers:

• Free, confidential case evaluations
• No upfront costs or attorney fees
• Payment only if we win your case
• Dedicated legal team with extensive experience in magnet injury litigation

Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek the justice and compensation you deserve for dangerous magnet injuries.

Reference:

1. https://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2010/Buckyballs-High-Powered-Magnets-Sets-Recalled-by-Maxfield-and-Oberton-Due-to-Violation-of-Federal-Toy-Standard/