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If you or a loved one experienced severe burns or other serious injuries following the explosion of a pressure cooker, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.
At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to defective pressure cookers. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
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Table Of Contents
- Are Cook’s Essentials Pressure Cookers Unsafe?
- The Cook’s Essentials Pressure Cooker Lawsuit
- Why are Pressure Cookers Dangerous?
- Common Injuries from Exploding Pressure Cookers
- Pressure Cooker Recall & Injury Statistics
- Who Qualifies for a Cook’s Essentials Pressure Cooker Lawsuit?
- Cook’s Essentials Pressure Cooker Recall Information
- Statute of Limitations for Cook’s Essentials Pressure Cooker Lawsuits
- Pressure Cooker Safety Tips
- Pressure Cooker Opening Method Quick Reference
- FAQs
- 1. Why are pressure cookers dangerous?
- 2. Can I sue if my pressure cooker exploded but I wasn’t injured?
- 3. How much time do I have to file a lawsuit?
- 4. How much does it cost to file a lawsuit?
- 5. What if I no longer have the pressure cooker?
- 6. How long do pressure cooker lawsuits take to settle?
- 7. What is the safest way to open a pressure cooker?
- 8. How can I prevent pressure cooker accidents?
- Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
- Get a Free Cook’s Essentials Pressure Cooker Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
- References
Has Your Pressure Cooker Put You in Danger?
Thousands of people have suffered severe burns and injuries due to exploding pressure cookers. Some models, including Cook’s Essentials, have allegedly malfunctioned, causing lids to detach mid-cooking, spraying scalding hot liquids onto unsuspecting users.
Are Cook’s Essentials Pressure Cookers Unsafe?
Cook’s Essentials pressure cookers, sold exclusively through QVC, have been the subject of serious safety concerns. While marketed as affordable and easy-to-use, multiple users have reported explosions, faulty lids, and dangerous pressure build-up that led to severe burns.
Several lawsuits have been filed against Cook’s Essentials and its manufacturers, alleging that the pressure cookers contain defective safety mechanisms that:
- Allow the lid to be opened while still pressurized, causing hot contents to erupt.
- Have faulty pressure release valves, leading to unexpected explosions.
- Feature defective seals that fail to regulate pressure properly.
The Cook’s Essentials Pressure Cooker Lawsuit
In 2021, an Illinois woman, Theresa S., filed a lawsuit after suffering severe burns from her Cook’s Essentials 6-Quart Electric Cooker (Model CEPC6005).
According to the lawsuit, the lid detached mid-cooking, releasing scalding hot liquid onto her body. Despite appearing safe, the cooker allegedly still contained dangerous pressure when she attempted to open it.
Her case was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois (Eastern Division), Case Number 1-21-CV-03469, against:
- IC Marks Inc. – The manufacturer of the pressure cooker.
- QVC Inc. – The retailer that sold the defective appliance.
Related Article : Pressure Cooker Lawsuit Update
Why are Pressure Cookers Dangerous?
Most modern pressure cookers are designed with safety features to prevent explosions, but defective models can fail in dangerous ways, including:
- Lid Malfunction: The lid can detach under pressure, releasing boiling-hot food and steam.
- Faulty Seals & Gaskets: Worn-out or defective seals allow pressure to build unpredictably.
- Blocked Vents: A clogged steam release valve can turn the appliance into a ticking time bomb.
- Sudden Explosions: Some models, including Cook’s Essentials, have been reported to explode unexpectedly, even when pressure appears to be fully released.
Did your pressure cooker explode unexpectedly?Find out if you qualify for a lawsuit →
Common Injuries from Exploding Pressure Cookers
Exploding pressure cookers have caused serious and life-changing injuries, including [1]:
- Second- and third-degree burns
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Eye injuries and blindness
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Nerve damage and loss of sensation
- Kitchen and property damage
Burn injuries often require costly medical treatment, including skin grafts and reconstructive surgery. If you’ve suffered due to a defective pressure cooker, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Pressure Cooker Recall & Injury Statistics
Have pressure cooker explosions happened before?
Yes. Here are notable recalls:
- Fagor Splendid Chef: 400,000 recalled due to 70+ burn injuries.
- Tristar Pressure Cooker: 145,000 recalled in 2012 due to lid detachment issues.
- Power Pressure Cooker XL: Nearly 1 million recalled after reports of explosions and malfunctions.
- Crock-Pot Express Crock: 119,000 recalled after 99 cases of violent lid detachment.
According to the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System:
- 46% of pressure cooker injuries occur in users aged 30-50.
- Burn injuries account for 90% of all reported incidents.
- 10% of injuries involve older adults (51-70), who may struggle with faulty safety features.
Who Qualifies for a Cook’s Essentials Pressure Cooker Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a Cook’s Essentials pressure cooker lawsuit if:
- You suffered burns or other injuries caused by an exploding or malfunctioning pressure cooker.
- Your pressure cooker unexpectedly opened or exploded, even after following safety instructions.
- You have medical records, photos, or evidence documenting the injuries.
- You still own the defective pressure cooker or have proof of purchase.
Not sure if you qualify?
Our team can help. Start a Free Case Review →
Evidence Required for a Cook’s Essentials Pressure Cooker Lawsuit
To strengthen your case, you should gather the following evidence:
- Medical documentation of your injuries
- The defective pressure cooker (if available)
- Proof of purchase (receipt, credit card statement)
- Photos of injuries and the damaged cooker
- Record of following proper usage instructions
Damages You Can Recover
Victims of defective pressure cookers may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering from injuries and scarring.
- Punitive damages against negligent manufacturers.
- Property damage resulting from the explosion.
Cook’s Essentials Pressure Cooker Recall Information
While a specific Cook’s Essentials recall has not been mentioned in the provided content, similar pressure cookers have faced recalls due to safety concerns. Always check the Consumer Product Safety Commission website for the most current recall information.
Statute of Limitations for Cook’s Essentials Pressure Cooker Lawsuits
Product liability lawsuits are subject to a statute of limitations, which varies by state. Some states allow up to two years from the date of injury to file a claim, while others may provide more time. Contact a lawyer immediately to determine the filing deadline in your state.
Pressure Cooker Safety Tips
To reduce the risk of explosions and burns, follow these safety tips:
- Inspect the rubber gasket regularly for cracks or wear. A damaged seal can cause dangerous leaks.
- Never overfill the cooker, especially when cooking foods that expand (e.g., rice, beans).
- Clear the pressure release valve before each use to prevent steam buildup.
- Always release all pressure before opening the lid. If unsure, wait an additional 10 minutes.
- Use protective gloves when handling a hot pressure cooker.
Pressure Cooker Opening Method Quick Reference
Method Name | Speed | Procedure | Electric (approx min) |
Stovetop (approx min) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Cold-water Quick | Fastest | Move stove top pressure cooker to sink and pour cold water on the lid. NOT RECOMMENDED | — | 30 sec. |
Base Immersion | Very Fast | Move stove top pressure cooker to sink full of cold water and immerse the base of the cooker in it. NOT RECOMMENDED | — | 1 |
Normal (aka Quick Release) |
Fast | Open the pressure valve on the lid. | 3 | 2 |
Slow Normal | Somewhat Slow | Open the pressure valve a little bit to release pressure slowly, or in short bursts 10 seconds apart. | 6 | 5 |
10-Minute Natural | Slow | Count 10 minutes, and then release remaining pressure by opening the valve. If the pressure dissipates sooner than 10 minutes do not remove lid until time is up. | 10 | 10 |
Natural | Slowest | Do not do anything. Wait until the pressure has dissipated completely, and the lid-lock has disengaged. | 20-30 | 10-15 |
*According to Hip Cooking [2].
FAQs
1. Why are pressure cookers dangerous?
Most modern pressure cookers have safety features, but defective models can fail due to lid malfunctions, faulty seals, blocked vents, or manufacturing defects that can lead to unexpected explosions, even when pressure appears to be fully released.
2. Can I sue if my pressure cooker exploded but I wasn’t injured?
Possibly. Property damage claims may be valid, but cases involving injuries are stronger. If your pressure cooker exploded unexpectedly, document the incident and contact a lawyer for advice.
3. How much time do I have to file a lawsuit?
Product liability lawsuits are subject to a statute of limitations, which varies by state. Some states allow up to two years, while others may provide more time. Contact a lawyer to determine your deadline.
4. How much does it cost to file a lawsuit?
Our law firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. There are no upfront legal fees.
5. What if I no longer have the pressure cooker?
Having the product helps, but cases can still be built using purchase records, photos, injury reports, and expert testimony.
6. How long do pressure cooker lawsuits take to settle?
The timeline varies depending on case complexity, evidence strength, and whether the case goes to trial. Some cases settle within months, while others may take years.
7. What is the safest way to open a pressure cooker?
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, the “Natural Release” method (waiting until pressure dissipates completely) is safest, though slowest. Never use the “Cold-water Quick” method as it’s dangerous and not recommended. Reference the pressure cooker opening method chart in your user manual for specific timings.
8. How can I prevent pressure cooker accidents?
Inspect the rubber gasket regularly, never overfill the cooker, clear the pressure release valve before each use, always ensure all pressure is released before opening, and use protective gloves when handling.
Related Articles:
See all related product liability litigations our lawyers have covered.
Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
Time is limited to pursue legal action for pressure cooker injuries. Most states only allow 1-3 years from the date of injury to file a claim. Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek the compensation you deserve.
At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:
- Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
- No upfront costs or fees – we only get paid if you win
- Experienced product liability attorneys who have won millions for clients
- Nationwide representation in all 50 states
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Get a Free Cook’s Essentials Pressure Cooker Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
The Product Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of jury trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Cook’s Essentials Pressure Cooker Lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently representing consumers in all 50 states.
Free Confidential Defective Pressure Cooker Evaluation: Again, if you or a loved one suffered serious burns or other serious injuries caused by an exploding pressure cooker, you should contact our law firm immediately for a free case review of your potential case. You may be entitled to recover damages and financial compensation for medical bills and lost wages by filing a Cook’s Essentials pressure cooker lawsuit and a lawyer can help.