H-E-B, a supermarket chain based in San Antonio, Texas, has issued a product defect recall for about 2.5 million GTC halogen light bulbs that could potentially explode and cause lacerations and burn injuries. According to news reports, consumers are being asked to immediately stop using the recalled halogen light bulbs. All recalled light bulbs could be returned to H-E-B for a full refund. So far, the company has received 14 reports of the light bulbs shattering while in a lamp or light fixture.
Product Recall Details
One consumer reported a cut on his hand while another suffered burn injuries to his hand and lacerations to his foot. H-E-B says the recalled bulbs were sold in packages of two or four light bulbs. They were sold at H-E-B stores in Texas or online at heb.com from August 2015 to December 2017 for about $2.20 (two pack) and $4 (four pack). The bulb packages were sold in 25 watts, 40 watts, 60 watts, 75 watts, or 100-watt bulb varieties in either clear or soft white colors. The tops of the bulbs read “GTC” and include the wattage and lumens values. The UPC codes are printed on the product packaging.
Steps Consumers Can Take
Corporations that design, manufacture and distribute products have a duty to ensure that their products are safe. If the product has an inherent design issue or manufacturing defect, or if the company failed to warn consumers about defects or dangers posed by the product, you may have a basis for a product defect claim against the at-fault parties.
If you have been injured by a dangerous or defective product, here are a few steps you can take to protect your rights:
- Preserve the item that caused your injuries and save proof of purchase such as a store receipt, which shows that you bought the item.
- Get prompt medical care, attention and treatment for your injuries.
- Take photos of all visible wounds and document their progress. Write notes about how your injuries are affecting your day-to-day activities and well-being.
- Do some research online to see if other people have had similar experiences with the same product that injured you.
- Contact an experienced product defect lawyer who can help protect your rights and help you obtain maximum compensation for your losses.
