The Hazards Behind Window Blinds and Window Blind Loops
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has long regarded window blinds and window blind loops as potential hazards that can cause the strangulation and asphyxiation of children who loop the cords around their heads but are unable to disentangle themselves. The Archives of Disease of Childhood states that small and young children are at the greatest risk due to their soft windpipes, large heads, and weak muscular control. According to the CPSC, window blinds and window blind loops have caused over 293 deaths and injuries.
Recalls, Lawsuits, and Petitions
In 2009, millions of roman shades, roller blinds, and roll-up blinds were recalled when they were linked to several deaths and injuries. The rate of deaths and injuries has not significantly abated since 1983 in spite of six industry-wide changes in safety standards. Families of children killed by window blind cords continue to file window blind strangulation lawsuits against window blind manufacturers, some claiming that manufacturers failed to follow safety standards.
Many safety advocates also claim that the CPSC has not done nearly enough to protect children from the danger posed by window blind and window blind loops. In March of 2014, the Consumer Federation of America, Parents for Window Blind Safety, Independent Safety Consulting, and many other organizations filed a petition for the CPSC to take greater action in protecting children from such dangers. According to their petition, in the course of only 22 days, four children were killed by window blind loops. They called on the CPSC to impose a mandatory standard that would completely eliminate the hazard.
File a Window Blind Strangulation Lawsuit in Mississippi
If you or someone you know in Mississippi has suffered from a death in the family resulting from window blind or window blind loop strangulation or asphyxiation, consider filing a window blind strangulation lawsuit in order to seek compensation for damages. If it’s unclear to you what your next steps should be, contact Attorney Group for Mississippi today. We can help answer questions and concerns you have and provide you with a case evaluation at no cost to you. If you decide to pursue a claim, we can connect you with an affiliated attorney in Mississippi qualified to provide you with the assistance you need to seek the compensation that may be entitled to you.
