Consumers can register some children’s products. It might seem like a waste of time to fill out the form or paperwork. But it could actually end up saving a child from injury or even death. That’s because manufacturers will have a way of notifying the purchaser of any recalls issued on the product.
But not everyone completes the form. Or the product may not have included one. Whatever the circumstances, it’s important to know where to find information about children’s toys and product recalls.
Resources for Checking Children’s Toys & Product Recalls
One of the best places to check is the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) website. When you land on the main page, the most recent recalls will be featured. You can even search recalls by product or company. You may also sign up to receive recall updates via email or through your smartphone.
Another resource is Safe Kids Worldwide. It obtains recall lists from both CPSC and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Its recalls are organized two ways; one is by latest recalls and the other is according to the year. BabyCenter provides not only parenting advice but also the most recent product recall information. The site also offers another feature: the product recall finder.
The BabyCenter Product Recall Finder offers specific information by:
- category;
- timeframe;
- product name;
- company;
- brand; or
- model number.
The popular magazine and website Parents includes a page that shows the most recent recalls. Like BabyCenter, it provides a similar search engine to look for a specific product.
What to Do If a Recall Has Been Issued on Children’s Toys or Equipment
The most important thing is to immediately stop using the product, even if nothing out of the ordinary has happened. There is no point taking a risk. Of course, if your child was seriously or fatally injured, this recall information can help establish product liability.
Check to see what the remedy is, which may include:
- returning the product and getting your money back;
- receiving a free replacement; or
- getting a repair kit.
But if you’re a parent whose child was injured, this may be the last thing on your mind. If you believe the toy or equipment caused the child’s injuries, it’s important to contact an attorney.
Product liability cases can be very complicated, so gathering as much information and documentation as possible will be critical in building a strong case. Whatever you do, keep the product.
Don’t return it or have it repaired. Don’t try to fix it yourself. Along with the recall notice, you will need the product in the exact state it was at the time of the child’s injury so that it can be used as evidence.
Don’t delay seeking legal advice. Get started right away by calling Jason R. Schultz in Peachtree City. Contact us at (404) 474-0804 or by filling out our contact form to set up a consultation.