#United States #Denver #Sunbeam Products #Georgina Perez #Burg Simpson

Landmark $55.5 Million Verdict for Victim of Defective Multi-Cooker

Burg Simpson Eldredge Hersh & Jardine, P.C., a leading personal injury law firm, has achieved a remarkable victory in a case involving a defective multi-cooker that resulted in severe injuries. The firm represented Georgina Perez, who was awarded $55.5 million by a jury after a harrowing incident that left her with catastrophic injuries. The case not only underscores the dangerous consequences of product defects but also emphasizes the critical importance of corporate responsibility regarding consumer safety.

The Incident

On June 13, 2019, Ms. Perez was using her Express Crock Multi-Cooker, a popular kitchen appliance capable of pressure cooking. After preparing beans, she attempted to open the lid. To her horror, the device exploded, unleashing scalding beans and liquid directly onto her face and body, causing third-degree burns and extensive injuries.

Investigations revealed that the multi-cooker was designed with a defect that allowed pressure to build up even when the lid was not correctly locked. This issue had been known to Sunbeam Products and its parent company, Newell Brands, for over two and a half years prior to the explosion, yet they failed to take necessary precautions or adequately warn consumers.

The Jury's Decision

The trial lasted five days, concluding with a jury's verdict that showcased both the severity of Ms. Perez’s injuries and the negligence of the manufacturers. The jury attributed fault as follows: 63% to Newell Brands, 27% to Sunbeam Products, and 10% to Ms. Perez herself. The breakdown of the compensation awarded was significant:

• - $3.5 million for pain and suffering
• - $2 million for disfigurement
• - $35 million in punitive damages from Newell
• - $15 million in punitive damages from Sunbeam

Michael Burg, one of the firm's leading attorneys, expressed satisfaction with the jury's recognition of the seriousness of the case, stating, "The jury understood the issues and sent a clear message to the defendants that prioritizing profits over consumer safety must have consequences."

The Aftermath

As a result of the accident, Ms. Perez required multiple skin grafts to treat her injuries, which included thirteen cadaveric skin grafts and eight amniotic skin grafts, drastically changing her life both physically and emotionally. Medical experts suggested that her injuries would lead to lifelong pain and disfigurement, altering her day-to-day life in profound ways.

This landmark verdict serves not only as a victory for Ms. Perez but also as a rallying point for advocating greater product safety measures in the consumer marketplace. The case sheds light on the critical need for manufacturers to ensure their products are safe before reaching consumers, as many injuries can be averted with proper design and testing processes.

About Burg Simpson

Founded in 1976, Burg Simpson Eldredge Hersh & Jardine, P.C. has built a reputation as one of America’s most effective plaintiff trial firms, dedicated to championing the rights of individuals harmed by negligence. Over the years, the firm has recovered more than $2 billion in settlements and verdicts across various fields including product liability, personal injury, medical malpractice, and more. With seven offices nationwide, the firm continues its mission to fight for justice, embodying the slogan, “Good Lawyers, Changing Lives."

Conclusion

As consumer safety remains a pressing concern, this case exemplifies the importance of rigorous product testing and proactive measures to safeguard users. The verdict not only compensates Ms. Perez for her suffering but also highlights the responsibilities manufacturers have towards their customers. Moving forward, it is crucial for other companies to heed the lessons learned from this case, ensuring that safety continually remains a priority.