Can an Instant Pot Explode? Answer from an Instant Pot Injury Attorney

Instant Pots are increasingly prevalent in modern kitchens, but are they safe? Learn about the seriousness and frequency of Instant Pot explosions and other product malfunction injuries.

Whether you’re a consumer seeking information on product safety or an individual navigating the aftermath of an Instant Pot accident, this article provides insights and guidance on this important legal issue.

As experienced attorneys specializing in product liability and personal injury law, we understand the complexities involved in pressure cooker cases. Instant Pot accidents can lead to serious injuries, ranging from burns and lacerations to more severe consequences.

How dangerous are Instant Pots? How frequently are people injured due to faulty machines? What are your potential legal avenues after you’ve been hurt?

At Harlan Law, our attorneys have handled cases involving kitchen appliance accidents, including those concerning Instant Pots. We are here to sort through and overcome any complexities or challenges faced by individuals seeking justice.

Read on to learn about the causes of Instant Pot explosions, the potential injuries they can cause, and the legal implications for consumers and manufacturers. For specific questions regarding your rights or potential case, contact us directly at (619) 870-0802 for your free consultation.

Holding companies legally accountable for product failures helps your family recover compensation, and improves safety for us all.

Are Instant Pots Dangerous?

Instant Pots, like any other kitchen appliance, have potential risks associated with their use. While they are generally considered safe when used properly and according to the manufacturer’s instructions, there have been reports of accidents and incidents involving Instant Pots.

Some of the risks associated with Instant Pots include:

• Burn injuries and pressure-related accidents: Improper handling of hot Instant Pot components or accidental spills can result in burns to the user. Instant Pots also use pressure cooking to expedite the cooking process. If not handled correctly, there is a risk of pressure build-up leading to accidents such as lid detachment or sudden release of hot steam.
• Electrical hazards: As with any electrical appliance, there is a risk of electrical malfunctions, such as short circuits or overheating, which can lead to fires or injuries. Spills related to Instant Pot explosions can also create a dangerous combination of liquid and electricity, leading to electric shock.
• Product defects: In some cases, Instant Pots may have manufacturing defects or design flaws that can pose safety risks to users. Manufacturers often issue product recalls only after a significant number of consumers have already been injured.

To minimize the potential dangers associated with Instant Pots, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. This includes proper maintenance, usage guidelines, and safety precautions.

Additionally, it helps to be aware of potential risks and take necessary precautions. Examples include using oven mitts, avoiding overfilling, and ensuring proper ventilation, can help mitigate the chances of accidents.

If you’ve experienced an injury or accident related to an Instant Pot, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. You should also consult with a legal professional to understand your rights and options for recourse.

The Top 3 Causes of Instant Pot Accidents

The most common causes of Instant Pot accidents that may merit legal action include:

• Faulty Machine: Faulty wiring, lid locks, or mismatched construction can create a manufacturing defect that immediately creates a risk of harm. Certain defects can wear down over time and become a liability later.
• Broken Seal or Improper Placement of Silicone Rings: If the seal of your Instant Pot is broken, it can cause accidents. This can also include accidents related to sealing rings that are not secured, of low quality, or are twisted, as hot steam can get out and burn your unprotected skin.
• Electric Shock: The thermal probe in the base of poorly manufactured Instant Pots can conduct electricity throughout the cooker, which then poses a risk of electric shock for users and their families.

Remember, Instant Pots are generally safe devices, but like any kitchen appliance, they need to be used correctly and safely to avoid accidents. Always refer to the user manual for proper use and safety guidelines. If you’re unsure about something, it’s better to be safe and check first.

User Errors vs. Manufacturing Failures
Injuries caused by user errors like overfilling the pot or using unsafe containers in the Instant Pot may not always be eligible for lawsuit compensation. However, before you blame yourself for an injury caused by one of these machines, consult with an attorney to ensure your machine didn’t fail you and your family.

Contact Harlan Law at (619) 870-0802 to discuss issues or injuries you’ve had with an Instant Pot product, and what legal action we can take to help you secure justice.

What Compensation Is Available in Instant Pot Lawsuits?

In Instant Pot lawsuits, the available compensation can vary depending on several factors, including the extent of injuries, the circumstances of the incident, and the applicable laws in the jurisdiction where the lawsuit is filed.

Here are some types of compensation that may be available in Instant Pot injury cases:

• Medical Expenses: This includes compensation for all medical costs related to the injury, such as hospital bills, doctor’s visits, medication, surgery, rehabilitation, and any future medical treatments necessitated by the injury.
• Lost Wages: If the injury results in the victim’s inability to work or earn income, they may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This may also cover past and future earnings that would have been earned if not for the injury.
• Pain and Suffering: This type of compensation is for the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the injury. It seeks to provide repayment for the intangible harms experienced by the victim.
• Disability or Disfigurement: If the injury results in a permanent disability or disfigurement, the victim may receive compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life, diminished quality of life, and the impact of the disability on their daily activities.
• Property Damage: If the Instant Pot malfunction results in damage to the victim’s property, such as a fire damaging their home or belongings, compensation may be available to cover the cost of repairs or replacement.

Additional funds may be available in cases where the defendant’s actions were particularly reckless, malicious, or intentional. These “punitive damages” may be awarded to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct in the future.

What Is the Most Common Instant Pot Injury?

The most common injury from Instant Pot accidents is burns. These burns can occur when the safety features fail to keep the lid from being removed while the contents are still under high pressure. The burns can range from first to third degree and typically cover a large percentage of a person’s body.

The most common Instant Pot injuries include:

• Burns due to exploding liquid or escaping steam
• Lacerations from shattered pot fragments
• Loss of eyesight or eye injuries from debris
• Hearing loss from the deafening blast
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement

It’s important to note that these injuries require immediate medical attention. Untreated burns could blister and host several bacterial infections, which could be fatal if not treated in time.

Always follow safety instructions when using an Instant Pot to minimize the risk of these injuries. If you’re injured by an exploding Instant Pot, it’s recommended to consult a product liability attorney about compensation.

Statistics on Instant Pot Explosions and Recalls

While it’s difficult to determine the exact number of Instant Pot explosions, here are some statistics based on sales logged and recalls issued:

• An average of half-a-million electric pressure cookers are sold to consumers in the United States each year.
• Roughly 1,000 Instant Pot units were recalled in one year due to electric shock risk.
• Nearly 1 million pressure cookers purchased between October 2017 and June 2023 were recalled due to burn risk.

While it’s important to note that these statistics represent a small fraction of the total number of Instant Pots and pressure cookers sold, some sources estimate that the number of Instant Pot explosion cases is in the thousands.

Most users have a safe experience when using these devices. However, any incident of an explosion can result in serious injuries, so it’s essential to follow all safety guidelines when using an Instant Pot or any pressure cooker. If you have sustained severe injuries after your Instant Pot exploded, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit.

Contact an Instant Pot Lawyer for Representation

While Instant Pots offer convenience and efficiency in the kitchen, they are not without their risks. Accidents and injuries can occur due to various factors, including pressure-related issues, electrical malfunctions, and product defects.

If you’ve been harmed by an Instant Pot malfunction or explosion, it’s crucial to take action to protect your rights and seek appropriate compensation. You have the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from an Instant Pot accident.

A qualified attorney experienced in product liability and personal injury law can provide guidance, evaluate your case, and help you navigate the legal process. Do not hesitate to reach out for help if you’ve been affected by an Instant Pot accident.

Contact us today at (619) 870-0802 for a free consultation and let us help you seek the compensation you deserve.

Instant Pot Injury Lawsuit FAQs