GE Refrigerator Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

GE Refrigerator Lawsuit Overview

The GE refrigerator lawsuit centers on allegations that certain GE models have serious freezer drawer handle defects, resulting in 37 reported injuries including 3 serious injuries.

Consumer complaints about GE refrigerators have steadily increased since February 2020, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission database.

The lawsuit claims GE failed to address these known defects despite mounting evidence of problems.

Latest GE Refrigerator Lawsuit Updates

• April 14, 2022 – GE Appliances, in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), recalled about 155,000 French-door refrigerators with bottom freezers due to a fall hazard. The freezer drawer handle can detach unexpectedly, resulting in 71 reports of handle detachments and 37 injuries, including three serious falls. Consumers were advised to contact GE for a free in-home repair to replace the handle mounting fasteners [1].

GE Refrigerator Injuries & Hazards

Defective GE refrigerators have caused various injuries and property damage, including:

• Physical Injuries: Lacerations, bruises, and broken bones from falling drawer components
• Food Spoilage: Loss of perishable food due to temperature control failure
• Property Damage: Water leakage causing damage to flooring and surrounding areas
• Safety Hazards: Risk of drawer components falling onto consumers’ feet or hands

Do You Qualify for a GE Refrigerator Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a GE refrigerator lawsuit if:

• You purchased a GE refrigerator between February 2020 and January 2022
• Your refrigerator has experienced drawer handle defects, temperature control issues, or other significant mechanical failures
• You experienced physical injury, property damage, or significant food loss
• The refrigerator was used as directed according to manufacturer instructions
• You can provide documentation of your purchase and the issues experienced

Evidence Required for a GE Refrigerator Lawsuit

To strengthen your case, you should gather:

• Proof of purchase (receipt, credit card statement)
• Model and serial number of your GE refrigerator
• Photos of the defective components
• Medical records if injuries occurred
• Documentation of repair attempts
• Records of communication with GE customer service

Damages You Can Recover

Successful plaintiffs in GE refrigerator lawsuits may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses related to injuries
• Cost of refrigerator replacement or repair
• Property damage caused by the defective appliance
• Food spoilage expenses
• Lost wages if injuries caused missed work
• Pain and suffering for serious injuries
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

GE Refrigerator Recall Information

• Recall Date: 2022
• Units Affected: About 155,000 units in the United States, with an additional 2,300 sold in Canada
• Models Affected: Six models of GE-brand French Door Refrigerators with bottom freezers in fingerprint resistant stainless steel, manufactured from February 2020 through August 2021. The affected model numbers are GFE26JYMKFFS, GFE26JYMNFFS, GNE27EYMKFFS, GNE27EYMNFFS, GNE27JYMKFFS, and GNE27JYMNFFS
• Manufacturer: GE Appliances, a Haier company, of Louisville, Kentucky
• Serial Numbers: The serial numbers for the affected models begin with one of the following two letter combinations: DR, FR, GR, HR, LR, MR, RR, SR, TR, VR, ZR, AS, DS, FS, GS, HS, LS, MS
• Identification: The brand name, model, and serial number for each unit are printed on a label located on the top of the left side of the interior of the refrigerator compartment. The refrigerators are 36 inches wide
• Where and when sold: These refrigerators were sold nationwide at Best Buy, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and other appliance retailers, as well as online at BestBuy.com and Lowes.com. They were sold between February 2020 and January 2022 for $1,900 to $2,500.
• Reported Incidents: The firm has received 71 reports of the freezer drawer handle detaching, resulting in 37 reported injuries, including three serious fall injuries
• Consumer Action: Consumers should contact GE Appliances to determine if their unit is part of the recall and to schedule a free in-home service call to have the freezer’s handle mounting fasteners replaced and the handle re-installed and for instructions for safe use pending a repair The FMV French Bottom of the Freezer 30, 33″ refrigerator models have been subject to safety concerns.

Statute of Limitations for GE Refrigerator Lawsuits

The time to file a product liability lawsuit varies by state:

• Most states allow claims within 2-3 years from the date of injury or discovery of the defect
• Some states have limitations as short as 1 year
• Other states allow up to 6 years to file a claim

It’s critical to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure you don’t miss the filing deadline in your state.

Related Article: GE Range Recall Litigation

FAQs

1. How Can I Determine if My GE Refrigerator is Part of a Recall or Subject to a Lawsuit

Check your refrigerator’s model and serial number (usually found inside the refrigerator on a label) against the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website or contact GE directly. For convenience, the model and serial numbers are typically located on a label inside the fresh food section.

2. What Steps Should I Take if My GE Refrigerator Has Caused Property Damage or Injury?

Document the damage or injury. Take photos of the refrigerator, preserve evidence of malfunction, and collect all receipts for repairs, medical treatment, and food spoilage that resulted from the failure.

3. Can I Join a Class Action Lawsuit Against GE if My Refrigerator is Defective?

Yes, depending on the specific defect and the state where you live. Class action lawsuits allow multiple people with similar claims to join together and seek compensation as a group.

4. What Compensation Can I Expect from a GE Refrigerator Lawsuit?

Compensation varies depending on the extent of injuries, property damage, and other factors. Settlements may include reimbursement for medical bills, property repairs, replacement appliance costs, and compensation for pain and suffering.

5. How Long Does the GE Refrigerator Lawsuit Process Take?

Most product liability cases take between 1-3 years to resolve, though some may settle sooner. The timeline depends on the complexity of your case and whether it goes to trial or settles out of court.

6. Will I Need to Pay Upfront Legal Fees to File a GE Refrigerator Lawsuit?

Most attorneys handling these cases work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. Attorney fees are typically paid as a percentage of your settlement if your case is successful.

7. Can I Still File a Claim if I No Longer Have the Defective Refrigerator?

Yes, but having documentation like purchase receipts, repair records, photos of the defect, and records of communication with the manufacturer will strengthen your case.

8. What Safety Precautions Should I Take if I Own a GE Refrigerator?

Regularly inspect drawer handles and latches for signs of wear or loosening. Keep children away from the refrigerator if you notice any defects. Report any issues immediately to GE and document all communication.

Get A Free GE Refrigerator Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action. Most states only allow 2-3 years from the date of injury or discovery of the defect to file a product liability lawsuit.

Our legal team offers:

• Free, confidential consultations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Payment only if we win your case
• Decades of experience with defective appliance cases

Don’t delay in seeking the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced product liability attorneys at Schmidt & Clark, LLP today to understand your legal options.

Reference

https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2022/GE-Appliances-a-Haier-Company-Recalls-Bottom-Freezer-French-Door-Refrigerators-Due-to-Fall-Hazard