Walmart has issued a nationwide product defect recall for nearly 14,000 Hyper Tough 2-Ton Jack Stands because of a serious safety risk. According to an alert posted by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Walmart reported that the jack stands broke during safety tests by an independent third-party laboratory. The jack stand failure reportedly occurred in the ratcheting bar.
Details of the Recall
The defect may cause the jack to suddenly drop and collapse under a lifted vehicle, which could then crush or kill a person who is working under or near the vehicle. The recalled jack stands were sold at Walmart stores nationwide until they were pulled off shelves on July 13. They were manufactured between Sept. 1, 2019, and Oct. 31, 2019, and have the model number 2TJS number on the label above the barcode.
Walmart’s jack stand recall comes just two months after Harbor Freight recalled millions of jack stands that can collapse under a lifted vehicle. Walmart is asking consumers to stop using the jack stands and return them to the store for a full refund. Owners with concerns may call Walmart at 1-800-925-6278.
Product Liability Issues
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that more than 10,000 people are seriously injured each year while using a car jack or a similar type of hoist. A study by the National Center for Statistics and Analysis showed that about 40% of car jack failures occurred when the vehicle was being partially lifted for tire changes. About 18% of these failures were linked to pressure loss in the jack, which means it could not support the vehicle. Some of the common injuries reported in these types of car jack failures include amputations, fractures and internal organ damage.
When these types of products fail, causing serious injury or death, the manufacturer of the faulty device can be held liable for the injuries, damages and losses caused. Injured victims can seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced product defect lawyer will be able to advise injured victims and their families regarding their legal rights and options.
Source: https://www.nhtsa.gov/equipment-detail/HYPER%252520TOUGH/2%252520TON%252520JACKSTAND/a__4465739#recalls
