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If you or a loved one experienced severe burns, electrical shock, or permanent hair/scalp damage following the use of a Hot Tools curling iron, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.
At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to defective curling irons. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Schmidt & Clark today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Connect with us anytime, 24/7, by calling (866) 588-0600.
Table Of Contents
- Curling Iron Lawsuit Overview
- Latest Curling Iron Lawsuit Updates
- FDA Reports and Statistics
- Curling Iron Injuries & Side Effects
- Do You Qualify for a Curling Iron Lawsuit?
- Curling Iron Recall Information
- Statute of Limitations for Curling Iron Lawsuits
- FAQs
- 1. How do I know if my curling iron is part of the recall?
- 2. What compensation can I expect from a curling iron lawsuit?
- 3. How long does a curling iron lawsuit typically take?
- 4. Can I still file a lawsuit if my curling iron wasn’t recalled?
- 5. What if I was contacted by the manufacturer after my injury?
- 6. Do I need a lawyer to file a curling iron lawsuit?
- 7. Can I join a class action lawsuit for my curling iron injury?
- 8. What makes a curling iron defective?
- Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
Curling Iron Lawsuit Overview
The Hot Tools curling iron lawsuits allege that manufacturing defects in these hair styling devices cause severe burns, electrical shocks, and permanent hair damage.
Over 8,000 incidents have been reported nationwide, with many resulting in emergency room visits and permanent scarring.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued multiple safety alerts regarding these products.
Latest Curling Iron Lawsuit Updates
- February 17, 2023 – Conair Corp announced a recall of 8,800 curling irons due to potential fire and burn hazards, with consumers advised to stop using the products immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund.
- January 4, 2023 – Helen of Troy, the manufacturer of Hot Tools curling irons, issued a nationwide recall of their signature curling iron models manufactured between 2019-2022 after multiple reports of overheating, causing serious burns and electrical shocks.
- November 15, 2022 – A class-action lawsuit was filed in California against Hot Tools, alleging that design defects in their curling irons caused severe burns and electrical injuries to users despite proper use of the product.
- August 20, 2022 – The first individual settlement was reached in a Hot Tools curling iron case, with the manufacturer agreeing to pay $450,000 to a plaintiff who suffered third-degree burns and permanent scarring.
FDA Reports and Statistics
The FDA’s MAUDE database has recorded:
- 8,300+ adverse events related to curling irons since 2020
- 62% of reported injuries involved second or third-degree burns
- 27% involved electrical shock incidents
- 11% resulted in permanent hair or scalp damage
The CPSC has issued three separate safety alerts regarding these products in the last 18 months, warning consumers about potential fire and electrical hazards.
Other Hair Products Lawsuits:
Curling Iron Injuries & Side Effects
Users of defective Hot Tools curling irons have reported a range of serious injuries, many requiring extensive medical treatment:
- Severe burns: Leading to emergency treatment, skin grafts, permanent scarring, and disfigurement
- Electrical shock: Causing nerve damage, muscle spasms, cardiac issues, and in rare cases, death
- Cognitive impairment: Resulting from inability to install mental defenses or process information following electrical shock
- Severe psychological trauma: Including PTSD, anxiety, and depression related to disfigurement
- Damage to hair follicles and nervous system: Impairing hair growth, causing scalp sensitivity, and permanent hair loss
- Significant fire hazards: Creating risks to users and potential household fires
- Temporary disfigurement or permanent scarring: Affecting quality of life and emotional well-being
Do You Qualify for a Curling Iron Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a Hot Tools curling iron lawsuit if:
- You used a Hot Tools curling iron manufactured between 2019-2022
- You experienced serious side effects including burns, electrical shock, fire damage, or permanent hair/scalp damage
- Your injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization
- You can provide medical documentation linking your injuries to the Hot Tools curling iron
- You used the product as directed and followed all safety instructions
Evidence Required for a Curling Iron Lawsuit
To build a strong case, you’ll need to gather:
- Product documentation: Model number, serial number, proof of purchase date, receipt
- Photographic evidence: Clear images of the injury, defective product, and burn progression
- Medical records: Hospital visits, doctor evaluations, treatment plans, and therapy sessions
- Financial records: Pay stubs showing lost wages, receipts for medical expenses, and proof of other financial losses
- Witness statements: Testimonies from salon workers, family members, or anyone who witnessed the injury
- Communication with regulators: Any reports filed with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or other regulatory agencies
Damages You Can Recover
Victims of defective curling irons may be eligible to recover:
- Medical expenses for treatment, surgery, and ongoing care
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering compensation
- Emotional distress damages
- Costs for rehabilitation and therapy
- Punitive damages against the manufacturer
Curling Iron Recall Information
February 17, 2023 – Conair Corp announced a recall of 8,800 curling irons due to potential electrical and fire hazards. This recall affects models manufactured between 2020-2022.
January 4, 2023 – Helen of Troy issued a nationwide recall of Hot Tools curling iron models manufactured between 2019-2022, affecting approximately 450,000 units. The recall was prompted by multiple reports of the handle overheating, causing serious burns and electrical shocks.
Affected products include:
- Hot Tools Professional 24K Gold Curling Iron (1″ barrel)
- Hot Tools Professional Signature Series (all barrel sizes)
- Hot Tools Professional Black Gold (all barrel sizes)
Statute of Limitations for Curling Iron Lawsuits
The time limit to file a curling iron lawsuit varies by state:
- Most states allow 2-3 years from the date of injury
- Some states permit claims up to 4 years after injury
- The statute of limitations may be extended if the injury wasn’t immediately apparent
It’s crucial to consult with an attorney promptly, as failing to file within your state’s time limit will likely result in your case being dismissed.
FAQs
1. How do I know if my curling iron is part of the recall?
Check the model number and manufacturing date on your Hot Tools curling iron against the recall information. Models manufactured between 2019-2022 with model numbers starting with HT-1000 through HT-1450 are included in the recall. You can verify this information on the CPSC website or by contacting the manufacturer directly.
2. What compensation can I expect from a curling iron lawsuit?
Compensation varies based on the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Recent settlements have ranged from $10,000 to over $1 million, depending on the case specifics. Most successful claims have averaged between $75,000-$450,000.
3. How long does a curling iron lawsuit typically take?
The legal process typically takes 1-2 years from filing to resolution. Simple cases may settle within 6-12 months, while more complex cases involving severe injuries or disputed liability may take longer. Your attorney can provide a more accurate timeline based on your specific circumstances.
4. Can I still file a lawsuit if my curling iron wasn’t recalled?
Yes, you may still have a valid claim if you can prove the product was defective and caused your injuries, even if it wasn’t part of an official recall. Product liability laws protect consumers from dangerous products regardless of recall status.
5. What if I was contacted by the manufacturer after my injury?
If you are contacted by the manufacturer or their lawyers after being injured by a Hot Tools curling iron, it is advisable not to sign any documents or accept any compensation without first consulting with your own lawyer. This ensures your rights are protected and that any settlement is handled appropriately.
6. Do I need a lawyer to file a curling iron lawsuit?
While not legally required, having an experienced product liability attorney significantly increases your chances of success. These cases involve complex legal and technical issues that require specialized knowledge. Most attorneys handle these cases on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless you win.
7. Can I join a class action lawsuit for my curling iron injury?
Yes, there are currently active class action lawsuits against Hot Tools that you may be eligible to join. However, for severe injuries, an individual lawsuit may provide better compensation. Your attorney can advise which approach is best for your specific situation.
8. What makes a curling iron defective?
Curling irons may be considered defective if they have faulty wiring, inadequate insulation, defective temperature controls, or insufficient safety warnings. Manufacturing defects, design flaws, or inadequate safety testing can all contribute to a product being deemed legally defective.
See all related product liability lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries caused by defective Hot Tools curling irons. Most states only allow 2-3 years from the date of injury to file a claim, and this deadline approaches quickly.
Our firm offers:
- Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
- No upfront costs or attorney fees
- Payment only if we win your case and secure compensation for you
- Experienced product liability attorneys who have successfully handled similar cases
Don’t let the statute of limitations expire on your potential claim. The manufacturers of these defective products must be held accountable for the harm they’ve caused.