February 25, 2014 — Law 360 reports that $18 million has been offered to settle a class action lawsuit involving the Flushmate System, a pressure-assisted toilet that can potentially explode, shatter the toilet tank, lacerate the person using the toilet, and cause extensive property damage.
The $18 million cash settlement could potentially increase if plaintiffs with personal injury claims need additional funds.
The settlement was reached after nine months of negotiations, which culminated in four days of mediation before a retired judge. Defendants include Flushmate, their parent company Sloan Valve Co., and toilet manufacturer American Standard. The companies are accused of misleading customers about the risks of explosions and providing an inadequate “repair kit.”
The class action was filed after the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued two recalls. The first recall, issued in June 2012, covered 2.3 million toilets manufactured from 1997-2008. The second recall, issued January 2014, expanded to include 360,000 toilets manufactured from March 2008 through June 2009. Click here to read more.
Flushmate has received over 300 reports of exploding toilets, which resulted in 14 laceration injuries and extensive property damage. According to the recall:
“The system can burst at or near the vessel weld seam releasing stored pressure. This pressure can lift the tank lid and shatter the tank, posing impact or laceration hazards to consumers and property damage.”
Do I have a Flushmate Class Action Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Flushmate induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by an exploding pressurized toilet, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Product Liability Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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