A class action lawsuit claims that the battery can leak in Skechers light-up shoes and cause chemical burn injuries.
Class Action Claims Skechers Light-Up Shoes Burn Feet
In November 2018, a class action lawsuit was filed against Skechers USA Inc. by a mother from New York who claims that her son’s feet were burned by chemicals leaking out of the battery in Skechers light-up shoes.
The lawsuit was filed by Sherry Foster, whose 9-year-old son suffered 2nd-degree burns that a doctor described as “chemical” in nature.
The burns were caused by excess heat from a faulty battery in his Skechers S-Lights sneakers. She claims that numerous other children have been injured, but Skechers failed to take action:
“Skechers not only failed to properly manufacture the defective sneakers, but once it was aware of the dangers inherent in the products, it then failed to disclose the safety hazards to consumers.”
What Shoes are Affected?
The problem affects Skechers light-up shoes with a Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cad) rechargeable battery in the heel of the shoe. Lawyers claim that it can leak an “extremely toxic” chemical when the shoes get wet.
Skechers light-up shoes for children include:
- S-Lights
- Shopkins
- Twinkle Toes
What is the Problem?
According to the class action, encapsulating Ni-Cad batteries in an air-tight space can cause excessive heat to build up. This may result in the battery overheating, rupturing, and leaking chemicals. Another problem is that Ni-Cad batteries can leak when they are exposed to water or moisture from sweat, washing machines, or the environment.
The class action lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York — In RE: Sherry Foster v. Skechers USA Inc. — Case No. 1:18-cv-10351.
Chemical Burns
The problem with chemical burns on the feet is that human skin is less resistant to damage when it is sweaty or wet. Furthermore, the symptoms may not appear immediately. Redness or pain may not appear for hours after exposure to certain chemicals.
Symptoms of a Chemical Burn
- Redness
- Skin irritation
- Burning
- Pain at the site of contact
- Peeling skin
- Blisters
- Scarring
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