July 8, 2014 — Bloomberg has reported that Swiss Re Ltd., a liability-assessment organization for insurers, is warning about potential liability issues from electronic cigarettes that are similar to the tobacco litigation.
The problem is that e-cigarettes are new products with unknown long-term health risks. Although no peer-reviewed studies have proven any benefits, e-cigarettes are widely marketed as smoking-cessation aids or healthier alternatives to traditional cigarettes.
According to the report (PDF) describing emerging liability risks:
“Concerns focus on e-liquids, the key ingredients in e-cigarettes, which are powerful neurotoxins. When e-liquids are ingested or absorbed through the skin, they can cause vomiting and seizures and can even be lethal.”
E-liquids are also a concern, especially for children. They are also a workplace safety hazard for people who prepare or sell the products without wearing gloves.
Earlier this year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposed extending their regulatory approval of tobacco products to include e-cigarettes. However, the FDA is moving much slower than health official in the European Union (EU). Laws have already been passed that will ban advertising e-cigarettes after mid-2016. E-liquid will be limited to 20-mg of nicotine per milliliter and it must be sold in child-proof containers. The EU has also required safety warnings on the devices.
Do I have an E-Cigarette Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting e-cigarette induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or a loved one developed severe side effects, 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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