Log Splitter Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Log Splitter Lawsuit Overview

Log splitter lawsuits involve claims against manufacturers for injuries caused by defectively designed or manufactured log-splitting machines.

Primary allegations focus on design flaws that make certain models prone to tipping over, detaching during use, or experiencing engine kickback.

Several manufacturers including Toro and Briggs & Stratton have issued recalls affecting thousands of units due to these safety concerns.

Latest Log Splitter Lawsuit Updates

• October 10, 2024 – In a recent case from Ireland, a man has sued after suffering serious injuries while using a log splitter, alleging defects in the equipment and negligence by the manufacturer [1].
• April 25, 2024 – The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a recall of Oregon Tool log splitters and cylinder kits due to injury hazards. The recall has since sparked legal action from affected consumers [2].
• May 12, 2021 – Briggs & Stratton recalled YTL, Longli, and TIYA Log Splitters with 250cc engines after reports of engine kickback causing two broken wrists [3].
• March 17, 2021 – Briggs & Stratton initiated a recall of nearly 10,000 YTL Log Splitters following two reports of users suffering broken wrists due to engine kickback issues [4].
• November 24, 2020 – Toro Company began recalling certain 2017-2020 model log splitters due to potential tow pole mounting plate defects that could cause the splitters to tip over or detach during use [5].

Related Articles:

• Toro Lawnmower Case
• Toro Snow Thrower Recall
• Stihl Cultivator Attachment Recall Suit

CPSC Reports and Statistics

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has documented multiple injuries associated with defective log splitters:

• Four confirmed cases of broken wrists reported to Briggs & Stratton related to engine kickback across two recalls in 2021.
• 30,895 units recalled across multiple manufacturers, including Toro and Briggs & Stratton, between 2020-2021 in the U.S.
• Retail price of affected units sold nationwide averaged approximately $1,400, with some models ranging up to $2,745.

Log Splitter Injuries & Side Effects

Log splitter accidents can result in severe and life-altering injuries, particularly when safety mechanisms fail.

• Broken wrists: Caused by sudden engine kickback during starting.
• Crushing injuries: Resulting from tipping or component failure.
• Lacerations: Due to unexpected movement or detachment.
• Amputations: Fingers, hands, or limbs caught in moving parts.
• Fractures: From impacts when units detach or tip over during use.

Do You Qualify for a Log Splitter Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a log splitter lawsuit if:

• You used a recalled log splitter model between 2017-2021.
• You experienced serious injuries such as broken bones, lacerations, or crushing injuries.
• Your injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization.
• You can provide documentation linking your injuries to the defective log splitter.

Evidence Required for a Log Splitter Lawsuit

To strengthen your case, you should collect:

• Medical records documenting your injuries and treatments
• Proof of purchase or ownership of the affected log splitter model
• Documentation showing your log splitter matches the recalled model numbers
• Photographs of the log splitter and any visible defects
• Witness statements if anyone observed the accident

Damages You Can Recover

A successful log splitter lawsuit may provide compensation for:

• Medical expenses for immediate and ongoing treatments
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering from injuries and recovery
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Punitive damages against manufacturers in cases of gross negligence

Log Splitter Recall Information

Toro Log Splitter Recall

• Recall date: November 24, 2020
• Models affected:
  • 2017-2020 Toro model 22618 Log Splitter
  • 2017-2020 Toro model 22618HD Log Splitter
• Defect: Tow pole mounting plates that could bend after towing through rugged terrain, causing tow pole bolts to break, resulting in the log splitter tipping over or detaching

Briggs & Stratton Log Splitter Recall

• First recall date: March 18, 2021
• Expanded recall date: May 2021
• Models affected: Multiple brands with Briggs & Stratton 250cc engines, including:
  • Black Diamond (model number BDBS32T – 32 ton and YTL-015-134 – 30 ton)
  • Crimson (model number YTL-590-012 – 32 ton)
  • Lumberjack (model number YTL-007-414)
  • Performance Built (model numbers YTL-007-308 and YTL-016-476 – 30 ton)
  • Brute (model numbers YTL-140-701 – 30 ton and YTL-140-473 – 35 ton)
  • Country Pro (model number YTL-019-880)
  • Boss (model number WD32T)
  • Oregon (model 3000 Series – 30 ton)
• Defect: Incorrect engine ignition coil and flywheel leading to hard starting and engine kickback, posing injury hazards to operators.

Statute of Limitations for Log Splitter Lawsuits

Time limits for filing a log splitter lawsuit vary by state, but typically range from 1-3 years from the date of injury. Some states may extend this period if the defect was discovered later.

Contact our attorneys immediately to ensure your claim is filed within your state’s statute of limitations.

Read more on: Briggs & Stratton Log Splitters Recall Lawsuit

FAQs

1. What types of log splitters are included in recent recalls?

The recalls affect specific models from Toro (2017-2020) and multiple brands using Briggs & Stratton 250cc engines sold between April 2019 and February 2021.

2. How do I know if my log splitter is recalled?

Check your log splitter’s model number against the recalled models listed by the CPSC. For Briggs & Stratton engines, the model number is printed on the valve cover and the serial number on the blower housing cover.

3. What should I do if I own a recalled log splitter?

Stop using the log splitter immediately and contact the manufacturer for repair or replacement options according to the recall instructions.

4. How much compensation could I receive for my log splitter injury?

Compensation varies based on injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, and other factors. Some product liability cases have resulted in significant settlements for serious injuries.

5. Do I need a lawyer to file a log splitter lawsuit?

While not required, an experienced product liability attorney significantly improves your chances of receiving fair compensation and navigating complex legal processes.

6. Can I join a class action lawsuit for log splitter injuries?

Currently, most log splitter cases are being handled as individual lawsuits rather than class actions due to the varying nature of injuries and circumstances.

7. How long does a log splitter lawsuit typically take?

The timeline varies, but most product liability cases take between 1-3 years to reach settlement or trial.

8. What costs are involved in hiring a lawyer for my case?

Our firm handles log splitter injury cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

9. Can I file a lawsuit if my injury occurred before the recall?

Yes, you may still qualify for compensation if your injury was caused by the same defect that led to the recall, even if it occurred before the official recall announcement.

10. Are log splitter retailers also liable for my injuries?

In some cases, retailers may share liability if they sold a product they knew or should have known was defective.

Contact us today to talk to an experienced product liability attorney to learn more about your legal rights.

Get a Free Log Splitter Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for log splitter injuries.

Many states only allow 1-2 years from the date of injury to file a claim, and evidence becomes more difficult to collect as time passes.

Our experienced product liability attorneys at Schmidt & Clark offer:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or attorney fees
• Payment only if we win your case

If you or a loved one suffered injuries from a defective log splitter, don’t wait to seek legal help. The manufacturers should be held accountable for their dangerous products.

Reference:

1. https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/man-sues-over-injury-he-suffered-in-log-splitter-accident-1681809.html 
2. https://downtownlalaw.com/practice-areas/defective-product/oregon-tool-log-splitters-and-cylinder-kits-recall-class-action-lawsuit/
3. https://www.recallinfolink.com/recalls/briggs-stratton-recalls-ytl-longli-and-tiya-log-splitters-with-briggs-stratton-r-engines-due-to-injury-hazard
4. https://www.usatoday.com/recalls/consumer-products/CPSC-9022/
5. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2020/RCONL-20V625-1231.pdf