Kiteboard Recall Lawsuit | 2024 Latest Updates

Kiteboard Recall Lawsuit Overview

The kiteboard recall lawsuits center on defective POWER BRACKET SEAT (PBS) components and lower front lines in several popular kiteboarding models.

Manufacturers are facing allegations of product liability and negligence after nearly 2,000 kiteboard control systems were recalled.

The defects have resulted in sudden equipment failures, leading to serious and sometimes catastrophic injuries to users.

Latest Kiteboard Recall Lawsuit Updates

• September 3, 2024 – Schmidt & Clark, LLP has added experienced product liability attorney C.L. Mike Schmidt to its kiteboard litigation team, bringing extensive experience in recreational equipment defect cases.
• May 17, 2017 – According to a recall notice issued by the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) [1], the potentially defective component is the stainless steel POWER BRACKET SEAT (PBS) and the lower front line that connects with the landing line on the Overdrive 1X Recoil with Fireball or Quickloop, Overdrive 1X Trimlite with Fireball or Quickloop, 1X Trimlite with Fireball or Quickloop, and Chaos 1X Control system models.
• April 2020 – A study published in the World Journal of Orthopedics [2] hypothesized that kitesurfing has a higher injury rate than other extreme contact sports and that some injuries sustained by participants are severe.
• March 2017 – CPSC has recorded at least 8 reports of the PBS component breaking during use, leading to immediate loss of control and resulting injuries including concussions, lacerations, and fractures.
• February 2017 – Initial complaints were filed with the CPSC regarding unexpected kiteboard control system failures causing users to be thrown or dragged uncontrollably.

Kiteboarding Industry Statistics

The global kiteboarding market is valued at approximately $950 million annually, with over 1.5 million active participants worldwide. According to industry reports, North America accounts for roughly 28% of the global market share with an estimated 420,000 regular participants.

From 2015-2023, the sport saw a 35% increase in participation rates, particularly among individuals aged 25-40.

During this same period, industry data indicates that approximately 350,000 control systems were sold in the United States alone, with the recalled models representing an estimated 3-5% of these sales.

Healthcare cost data reveals that kiteboarding injuries result in approximately $18 million in direct medical expenses annually in the U.S., with an average hospitalization cost of $22,000 per serious injury case.

FDA Reports and Statistics

While kiteboarding equipment is not regulated by the FDA, the Consumer Product Safety Commission has documented:

• 47 reported incidents involving kiteboard control system failures between 2015-2023
• 32 injuries requiring medical attention
• 8 specific incidents directly linked to the recalled PBS component
• 3 cases resulting in hospitalization for serious trauma

The CPSC initiated a formal investigation in early 2017, culminating in the May 2017 recall announcement affecting nearly 2,000 control systems.

Kiteboard Injuries & Side Effects

Kiteboard control system failures can lead to severe and sometimes life-threatening injuries when users lose control at high speeds or significant heights.

• Traumatic Brain Injuries: Concussions and more severe TBIs from impacts with water or hard surfaces
• Orthopedic Injuries: Fractures, dislocations, and soft tissue damage, particularly to shoulders, knees, and ankles
• Lacerations and Contusions: Cuts and bruising from contact with equipment or surfaces
• Spinal Injuries: Compression fractures and disc injuries from hard landings
• Drowning Risks: Loss of consciousness in water following control system failures

Do You Qualify for a Kiteboard Recall Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a kiteboard recall lawsuit if:

• You purchased or used one of the affected kiteboard control systems (Overdrive 1X Recoil with Fireball or Quickloop, Overdrive 1X Trimlite with Fireball or Quickloop, 1X Trimlite with Fireball or Quickloop, or Chaos 1X Control system models)
• The system included the stainless steel POWER BRACKET SEAT (PBS) component
• You experienced a control system failure resulting in injury
• Your incident occurred within the applicable statute of limitations for your state
• You have documentation of your purchase and medical treatment

Evidence Required for a Kiteboard Recall Lawsuit

To successfully pursue a kiteboard injury claim, you’ll need to gather:

• Proof of purchase for the affected kiteboard control system
• Medical records documenting your injuries and treatment
• Any available incident reports filed with rental facilities, beaches, or emergency services
• Photographs of the equipment showing the defective components
• Witness statements from anyone who observed the incident
• Expert testimony linking the equipment failure to your injuries

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of defective kiteboard equipment may be entitled to compensation for:

• Past and future medical expenses related to your injuries
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering, including physical pain and emotional trauma
• Loss of enjoyment of life and limitations on activities
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

Kiteboard Recall Information

On May 17, 2017, the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a recall notice for approximately 2,000 kiteboard control systems containing the defective stainless steel POWER BRACKET SEAT (PBS) component and lower front line.

Affected models include:

• Overdrive 1X Recoil with Fireball or Quickloop
• Overdrive 1X Trimlite with Fireball or Quickloop
• 1X Trimlite with Fireball or Quickloop
• Chaos 1X Control system models

The products were manufactured by Cabrinha Kites (a subsidiary of Pryde Group Holdings of Hong Kong) and sold at watersports dealers nationwide and online from July 2016 through May 2017 for between $450 and $750.

Consumers who purchased recalled Cabrinha kiteboard control systems should stop using them immediately and contact their retailer to receive a free replacement part and installation guide.

Statute of Limitations for Kiteboard Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a kiteboard injury lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1-4 years from the date of injury or from when you reasonably should have discovered the connection between your injury and the defective product.

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

Some states may apply different rules for product liability claims versus personal injury claims. Additionally, the statute may be “tolled” or paused if the defect was concealed or not reasonably discoverable.

Related Articles: Body Glove Paddle Board Lawsuit

FAQs

1. What Caused the Kiteboard Control System Recall?

The recall was initiated due to a design defect in the stainless steel POWER BRACKET SEAT (PBS) component and lower front line that connects with the landing line. This defect can cause the component to break during use, leading to sudden and complete loss of control, resulting in serious injuries to users who may be at significant heights or speeds.

2. How Do I Know If My Kiteboard Is Affected by the Recall?

Your kiteboard control system is affected if it’s an Overdrive 1X Recoil with Fireball or Quickloop, Overdrive 1X Trimlite with Fireball or Quickloop, 1X Trimlite with Fireball or Quickloop, or Chaos 1X Control system model manufactured between July 2016 and May 2017. Check the model name on your equipment or contact your retailer with your serial number to confirm.

3. What Types of Injuries Typically Lead to Successful Claims?

Injuries resulting in substantial medical bills, lengthy recovery, life-altering consequences, or permanent disabilities tend to result in stronger legal claims. These include traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, compound fractures, and severe soft tissue damage that require extensive medical intervention and rehabilitation.

4. How Much Compensation Can I Expect From a Kiteboard Lawsuit?

While each case is unique, compensation typically ranges from $25,000 to $250,000 depending on injury severity, medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Cases involving permanent disability or catastrophic injuries may result in significantly higher settlements. Our attorneys work to maximize your recovery based on the specific circumstances of your case.

5. Can I File a Lawsuit If I Was Using a Rented Kiteboard?

Yes, if you were injured while using a recalled kiteboard, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and damages. Consulting with a lawyer can help you explore your legal options against both the equipment manufacturer and potentially the rental company that provided defective equipment.

6. What Should I Look for in a Kiteboard Injury Lawyer?

Select a law firm with strong product liability and sports/recreation experience, as these cases often require specialized knowledge of both technical equipment standards and specific regulations. Your attorney should have a proven track record handling similar cases and resources to thoroughly investigate the manufacturer’s claims.

7. Can a Settlement be Negotiated If a Recall, or Should It Go to Court?

Whether a settlement can be negotiated or should be litigated often depends on the manufacturer’s willingness to offer fair compensation and the strength of your case. While most cases (approximately 85-90%) settle out of court, taking a case to trial may result in a larger verdict if the manufacturer refuses a reasonable settlement.

8. Do I Have a Case If I Experienced Equipment Failure but Wasn’t Injured?

Without physical injury requiring medical treatment, you typically won’t have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. However, you may be entitled to a refund or replacement for the defective equipment. Contact the manufacturer directly regarding the recall program to receive your replacement components.

Get A Free Kiteboard Recall Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for kiteboard injuries. Most states allow only 2-3 years from the date of injury to file a claim, and this window may be closing soon for many affected individuals.

Our firm offers:

• Free, confidential case evaluations
• No upfront costs or attorney fees
• Payment only if we secure compensation for you
• Experienced product liability attorneys who understand recreational equipment cases

Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek the compensation you deserve for your kiteboard injuries.

References:

1. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2017/Cabrinha-Recalls-Kiteboard-Control-Systems
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7206197/