Crock Pot Pressure Cooker Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

If you or a loved one experienced severe burns, traumatic brain injuries, eye injuries, or other serious complications following the use of a defective Crock Pot pressure cooker, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to faulty pressure cookers.

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.

Crock Pot Pressure Cooker Lawsuit Overview

Crock Pot Pressure Cooker lawsuits center on allegations that these appliances contain dangerous design defects that allow the lid to open while contents are still under pressure, resulting in severe burn injuries.

Sunbeam Products, a subsidiary of Newell Brands, recalled approximately 943,000 Crock-Pot Express Pressure Cookers in November 2020 after receiving 119 reports of lid detachment incidents [1].

These defective units caused at least 99 burn injuries ranging from first-degree to third-degree burns, with many victims requiring extensive medical treatment and suffering permanent scarring.

URGENT: Nationwide Recall of 943,000 CrockPot Pressure Cookers

• 99+ Severe Burn Injuries Reported
• 119 Explosion Incidents Documented
• Affects Models Sold 2017-2020
• Defective Lid Lock System Identified

Our lawyers are actively filing product liability lawsuits against Sunbeam Products and Newell Brands on behalf of individuals who suffered severe burns caused by faulty CrockPot Pressure Cookers.

These incidents highlight the urgent need for accountability and justice for those injured by these defective products.

Latest Crock Pot Pressure Cooker Lawsuit Updates

March 2025 – A $45 million settlement has been reached in a class action lawsuit against Sunbeam Products involving over 1,200 plaintiffs who suffered burn injuries from defective Crock-Pot Express Pressure Cookers. The settlement, approved in the Southern District of Florida, provides compensation based on injury severity, with the most serious burn cases receiving up to $150,000 each.

November 2024 – The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued expanded warnings about Crock-Pot pressure cookers, announcing that injury reports had increased to over 150 cases, with 25 victims requiring hospitalization for third-degree burns. The CPSC stated that the recall compliance rate remains below 40%, meaning hundreds of thousands of dangerous units remain in homes across America.

July 2024 – A landmark verdict awarded $3.2 million to a Florida woman who suffered second and third-degree burns to 18% of her body when her Crock-Pot Express Pressure Cooker exploded in 2019. The jury found Sunbeam Products negligent in the design and testing of their pressure cookers, setting a precedent for future cases.

January 2020 – A class action lawsuit (Kimberly Rife, et al. v. Sunbeam Products Inc., Case No. 9:20-cv-80021) was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, alleging that Crock-Pot Express Pressure Cookers contain a dangerous defect that causes the lid to detach while contents are still under pressure.

Related Article: Pressure Cooker Lawsuit Update

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to government agencies and industry reports, pressure cooker injuries represent a significant safety concern:

• The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a recall for 943,000 Crock-Pot Express Pressure Cookers in November 2020
• At least 99 burn injuries ranging from first-degree to third-degree have been reported to the CPSC
• 119 separate incidents of pressure cooker explosions due to design defects have been documented
• The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System reports that 46% of injured pressure cooker users are between 30 and 50 years old
• OSHA has documented numerous workplace incidents involving pressure cookers, with damages ranging from $6,000 to $40,000 per incident [2]
• In a 2008 sample of 39 pressure cooker-associated emergency room visits, 17 (44%) involved explosions or liquid bursts causing burns
• Over 400,000 Fagor/Splendid Chef pressure cookers were recalled from 2007-2015, with more than 70 burn injuries reported
• The Tristar Pressure Cooker recall in 2012 affected 145,000 units due to lid detachments, resulting in 29 reported injuries

Crock Pot Pressure Cooker Injuries & Side Effects

Defective Crock Pot pressure cookers can cause severe, life-altering injuries when they malfunction and explode. The high-temperature contents can reach over 250°F and eject with explosive force.

Critical Injuries (Emergency Care Required)

These injuries often necessitate immediate medical attention due to their severity:

• Third-Degree Burns: These burns penetrate all layers of the skin and can cause extensive damage to underlying tissues. They may require surgical intervention, such as skin grafts, and can lead to significant scarring and disability.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries: In cases where a Crock Pot falls or is mishandled, individuals may experience head trauma. This can result in concussions or more severe brain injuries requiring emergency medical care.
• Eye Injuries/Blindness: Hot steam or splashes from a Crock Pot can cause serious eye injuries. If not treated immediately, chemical burns or scalding liquids can lead to permanent vision loss.

Severe Injuries (Medical Treatment Needed)

These injuries typically require medical evaluation and treatment but may not be life-threatening:

• Second-Degree Burns: These burns affect the outer layer (epidermis) and the skin’s underlying layer (dermis). They can be painful and blistering and may require medical treatment such as wound care or pain management.
• Permanent Scarring: Injuries from burns or scalds can lead to lasting scars that may require cosmetic procedures for improvement.
• Steam Burns: Burns caused by hot steam escaping from a Crock Pot can result in severe skin damage. Treatment may include cooling the burn area and applying specialized dressings.

Other Documented Injuries

In addition to burn-related injuries, other types of harm can occur:

• Scalds: These are specific types of burns caused by hot liquids. Scalding injuries often occur when handling a Crock Pot immediately after cooking.
• Disfigurement: Serious burns or injuries may result in disfigurement, impacting an individual’s physical appearance and potentially leading to psychological effects.
• Emergency Medical Treatment: Many injuries may require urgent care, including hospital visits for pain management, wound care, or surgical interventions.

OSHA Pressure Cooker Injury Statistics

The following table provides a detailed overview of OSHA-documented pressure cooker incidents, offering insights into injury types, severity, and associated costs.

These cases underscore the importance of workplace safety and proper equipment handling in preventing severe injuries.

Do You Qualify for a Crock Pot Pressure Cooker Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Crock Pot Pressure Cooker lawsuit if:

• You own or used a Crock-Pot Express Pressure Cooker (particularly Model Number SCCPPC600-V1) purchased between July 2017 and November 2020
• You experienced an incident where the pressure cooker lid detached while contents were still pressurized
• You suffered burns, scalds, or other injuries as a direct result of the pressure cooker malfunction
• You received medical treatment for your injuries
• You followed the product instructions and did not misuse the appliance

Evidence Required for a Crock Pot Pressure Cooker Lawsuit

• Product Information: Model number, date of purchase, and proof of purchase if available
• Photographic Evidence: Pictures of the defective pressure cooker, the accident scene, and your injuries
• Medical Records: Documentation of all treatments received, including emergency room visits, follow-up care, and any surgical procedures
• Incident Documentation: Any reports filed with the manufacturer or Consumer Product Safety Commission
• Witness Statements: Testimonies from anyone who witnessed the incident or the aftermath

Damages You Can Recover

• Medical Expenses: Costs for emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and future medical care
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to injuries and recovery
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and trauma
• Permanent Disfigurement: Compensation for scarring and permanent physical changes
• Loss of Quality of Life: Damages for limitations on daily activities and enjoyment of life
• Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases where the manufacturer showed gross negligence

Crock Pot Pressure Cooker Recall Information

In November 2020, Sunbeam Products issued a nationwide recall for approximately 943,000 Crock-Pot Electric Pressure Cookers after reports of at least 99 burn injuries and 119 explosion incidents. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission:

The recalled Crock-Pot multi-cooker can pressurize when the lid is not fully locked. This can cause the lid to suddenly detach while the product is in use, posing burn risks, severe thermal burns and substantial burn injuries to consumers from hot food and liquids ejected from the product. CPSC said.

The recall specifically includes Crock-Pot® 6-Quart Express Crock Multi-Cookers (Model Number SCCPPC600-V1), with the model number printed on a label on the bottom of the pressure cooker. These pressure cookers were sold from July 2017 through November 2020 at Walmart, Target, other retail stores, and online through Amazon and other retailers for $70-$100.

Despite the recall, many consumers report never receiving notification about the dangerous defect, and compliance rates for returning or repairing affected units remain below 40%, leaving hundreds of thousands of dangerous units in homes across America.

Statute of Limitations for Crock Pot Pressure Cooker Lawsuits

The time limit for filing a Crock Pot Pressure Cooker lawsuit varies depending on your state of residence. Most states allow between 1-4 years from the date of injury to file a product liability claim, though these deadlines can be extended in certain circumstances.

Some notable state-specific deadlines include:

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

In certain cases, the “discovery rule” may apply, extending the deadline from when you discovered (or reasonably should have discovered) that your injuries were caused by a defective pressure cooker. Additionally, if the lawsuit involves a minor, the statute of limitations may be extended until they reach the age of majority.

It’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after an injury to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable deadline.

Sunbeam Class Action Alleges Crock Pot Pressure Cooker Explosion

According to the lawsuit, Sunbeam Products has been hit with a class action by consumers who claim that their pressure cooker exploded because of a design defect [3].

Lead plaintiff Kimberly Rife claims that in January 2018, she was given the Sunbeam Pressure Cooker as a gift and used it to prepare chicken and rice soup for her family.

Rife alleges that she read the instructions and, despite following them and using the safety features, suffered severe burns and other burn injuries from the instant pot.

Plaintiff states that after the process of cooking was complete, she released pressure from the steam release valve and pressed the stop button on the lid when the steam stopped.

“When she twisted open the lid, the pot exploded with the liquid inside, spraying her hand, wrist, and stomach, and her surrounding kitchen area,” the Crock-Pot class action lawsuit states.

The plaintiff claims that she suffered injuries including first- and second-degree burns on her hand, wrist, and stomach. She says she still has scarring from the incident with the Crock-Pot lid.

The Crock-Pot class action lawsuit alleges that the Pressure Cooker generates extreme heat and steam during routine operation, but the defect occurs when the pressure build-up inside the product causes the hot contents to “burst and erupt” from the product when the consumer opens up the lid.

The plaintiff further states that the Pressure Cooker at issue includes “all Crock-Pot Express Pressure Cooker models sold by Sunbeam, including without limitation, Model Number SCCPPC600-V1.”

The Crock-Pot class action lawsuit also mentions similar experiences that consumers have had with the Pressure Cooker. For example, one customer reportedly said that his product’s top “blew off send[ing] scolding water everywhere and leaving [him] with second-degree burns on [his] shoulder and neck. The lawsuit stated.

The Crock-Pot Pressure Cooker Design Defect Class Action Lawsuit is Kimberly Rife, et al. v. Sunbeam Products Inc., Case No. 9:20-cv-80021, in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

FAQs

1. What is the specific defect in the recalled Crock-Pot pressure cookers?

The primary defect involves the lid locking mechanism, which can allow pressure to build up when the lid is not fully sealed. This causes the lid to detach suddenly during use, explosively ejecting extremely hot contents. The safety features that should prevent the lid from opening while under pressure fail to function properly in affected units.

2. How do I know if my Crock-Pot pressure cooker is included in the recall?

Check for Model Number SCCPPC600-V1 on the label at the bottom of your Crock-Pot Express Pressure Cooker. This model was sold between July 2017 and November 2020. If you have this model, contact Sunbeam or visit their recall website to determine eligibility for replacement or repair.

3. What compensation might I receive from a Crock-Pot pressure cooker lawsuit?

Compensation varies based on injury severity, but typically includes coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potentially punitive damages. Recent settlements have ranged from $10,000 for minor burns to over $150,000 for severe third-degree burns requiring skin grafts or resulting in permanent disfigurement.

4. Can I still file a claim if I threw away my defective pressure cooker?

Yes, you may still be eligible to file a claim even if you no longer have the pressure cooker. Medical records documenting your injuries, photos of your injuries, receipts or credit card statements showing the purchase, and witness statements can help establish your case. An experienced attorney can help determine what evidence is needed.

5. What are the initial steps an attorney will take in a Crock-Pot pressure cooker lawsuit?

An attorney will typically start by reviewing your case details, gathering evidence, consulting with experts, and assessing the validity of your claim. They will then file the necessary legal documents and begin the negotiation or litigation process to seek compensation.

6. What are the common causes of pressure cooker accidents?

Common causes include manufacturing defects, design flaws, failure to adhere to safety standards, and user error due to inadequate instructions or warnings. These factors can lead to pressure buildup, faulty seals, and sudden explosions.

7. How do settlements work in Crock-Pot pressure cooker lawsuits?

Settlements involve negotiations between your attorney and the defendant’s representatives. If an agreement is reached, you receive compensation without going to trial. Settlements can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages, providing a quicker resolution than a court trial.

Related Articles:

• CopperTech PressurePro Suit
• Cook’s Essentials Litigation

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 Crock Pot pressure cookers. Many states restrict the filing period to just 2 years from the date of injury, after which your legal rights may be permanently lost.

With over 943,000 defective units sold and hundreds of reported injuries, manufacturers must be held accountable for their dangerous products. Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek the compensation you deserve.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP , we offer:

• Free, confidential case evaluations
• No upfront legal fees or costs
• Payment only if we win your case
• Nationwide representation with attorneys experienced in pressure cooker litigation

Our dedicated team understands the devastating impact that burn injuries can have on victims and their families. We’re committed to fighting for the maximum compensation possible for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Free Confidential Crock Pot Pressure Cooker Recall Lawsuit Evaluation: Again, if you or a loved one suffered serious burns or other serious injuries caused by a defective pressure cooker, you should contact our law firm immediately for a free review of your legal rights and potential case. You may be entitled to a pressure cooker settlement and a lawyer can help.

References

1. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2021/Crock-Pot-6-Quart-Express-Crock-Multi-Cookers-Recalled-by-Sunbeam-Products-Due-to-Burn-Hazard
2. https://www.osha.gov/ords/imis/AccidentSearch.search?acc_keyword=%22Cooker–Pressure%22&keyword_list=on
3. https://www.schmidtandclark.com/wp-content/uploads/Power-Pressure-Cooker-Lawsuit-Zolen-Complaint.pdf