In our previous blog, we covered some recent examples of deadly lithium battery fires in the United States. Knowing more about these batteries is important for multiple reasons. First, they’re known to wreak havoc and cause damage, injuries, and even death. Second, lithium batteries are included in most electronics that we use everyday, including cell phones, cameras, tablets, laptops, vapes, and even electric toothbrushes. If you’ve experienced a lithium battery fire in New York City, an experienced Lithium battery fire injury attorney can help you hold the negligent parties accountable for injuries or even deaths sustained by loved ones.
What are lithium batteries?
According to Clean Energy Institute, (a lithium-ion Li-ion) battery is an advanced battery technology that uses lithium ions as a key component of its electrochemistry. During a discharge cycle, lithium atoms in the anode are ionized and separated from their electrons. The lithium ions move from the anode and pass through the electrolyte until they reach the cathode, where they recombine with their electrons and electrically neutralize.
Put simply, lithium batteries have a higher energy density than most other types of batteries and can use multiple materials as electrodes. This means that they can be utilized in high-power portable applications and have an extended lifespan. Finally, their discharge rate is comparably lower and they don’t contain toxic cadmium. All of these factors combined make them a prime battery for many of our everyday portable devices to keep them running longer.
The downfalls of lithium batteries.
While lithium batteries are convenient, the safety risks associated with lithium batteries are their biggest drawbacks. Overheated lithium batteries are the culprit of scooter fires and building fires. Even worse, a lithium battery was cited as the reason for grounding a Boeing 787 fleet in January 2013.
These batteries are extremely sensitive to high temperatures and are inherently flammable. Once they become overheated, they’re prone to combust and cause fires.
Which devices are equipped with lithium batteries?
Unbeknownst to most people, the majority of electronics that we use contain a lithium battery, and therefore, pose a threat to our safety each day. Here are some examples:
Personal use
- Cell phones
- Laptops
- Tablets
- Smart watches
- Vaping devices
- Electric toothbrushes
- Beauty devices
- Electric razors
Recreational Use
- Scooters
- Electric bikes
- Hoverboards
- Electric vehicles
Real-Life Cases
In a recent real-life case, we are suing GE on our client’s behalf for the improper design and usage of a lithium battery in a stove that was in her rental apartment kitchen.
This lawsuit is ongoing and we are fighting for our client to get them the monetary compensation they deserve.
Contact Your Fire Injury Attorney
If you or a loved one has experienced suffering, pain, or injuries due to lithium battery fires or explosions in New York City, contact an explosion expert lawyer immediately. We will help you get through this difficult time and receive the justice you deserve. Our firm currently represents 30 people who were injured and died when the battery of a lithium bike exploded and started a fire, killing two and severely burning several other people. We have the resources and knowledge you need to navigate these cases and hold the negligent parties accountable. Contact our NYC Fire Injury Attorneys today for a free consultation or call 212-779-7070.
