Electric Vehicle and E-Bike Batteries Can Cause Fires and Injuries
Electric vehicles (EVs) and e-bikes are growing in popularity. Many people choose EVs for environmental or economic advantages. E-bikes can be a useful or convenient way to get around town. Unfortunately, the batteries in EVs and e-bikes may cause fires—fires that burn excessively hot and are difficult to extinguish. Home and apartment building fires caused by batteries in EVs and e-bikes have caused severe injuries and fatalities across the country.
The lithium batteries that power EVs and e-bikes generate a tremendous amount of power in a very small space through volatile chemical reactions. When chemicals in separate parts of a lithium battery are improperly mixed together, it can cause a dangerous reaction resulting in explosion or fire.
Elevated risks of fire have prompted a number of EV recalls, including these models:
- Hyundai Kona
- Chevrolet Bolt
- Chrysler Pacifica
- BMW i4 and iX
- Tesla Model S
- Audi E-Tron
- Kia Soul
E-bikes have also caused fires and numerous fatalities.
Products liability lawsuits, including those stemming from EV or e-bike battery fires, are challenging and filled with many legal obstacles. Hiring an attorney with experience in products liability cases can be extremely important in holding vehicle, bike, battery, or other kinds of product manufacturers accountable.
At Butler Prather LLP, our experienced litigators know how to successfully handle these kinds of cases. We routinely represent individuals who have been seriously injured or family members of people who have been killed by defective products. We have won nine verdicts that exceed $100 million, several of which involved products liability lawsuits. We’ve also helped our clients obtain over 60 verdicts and settlements larger than $10 million.
Call (706) 322-1990 to learn more today.