A consumer advocacy group in Illinois has been raising awareness about the dangers of an infant product that was recalled in 2019. According to Kids in Danger, deaths associated with inclined infant sleepers were the main cause of a spike in fatal accidents involving recalled children’s products. There were no deaths from recalled children’s products in 2018, but in 2019, there were 38.
Products to Watch Out For
Most of the inclined sleeper deaths were associated with two baby products: the Fisher-Price Rock ‘n Play and the Kids II Rocking Sleeper. The Fisher Price product had been incredibly popular before 2019, but 4.7 million units were recalled due to safety concerns. Over the years, more than 30 infant deaths have been connected to use of the Rock ‘n Play. The Kids II Rocking Sleeper has been connected to five infant deaths.
What Makes Inclined Sleepers so Dangerous
Infant-inclined sleepers do not provide a safe sleeping position for young babies with undeveloped neck muscles. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, there is risk of suffocation if a baby slumps forward while sleeping in an inclined position. The appropriate sleeping position for a baby is flat on their back.
Why Are Inclined Sleepers Still Sold?
While specific products have been recalled, infant-inclined sleepers are still being sold in the U.S. However, that could change due to legislation that is pending in Congress. In the fall of 2019, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced that it was moving forward with a ban on all inclined sleepers. The American Academy of Pediatrics has also warned parents not to use the products.
Product Manufacturers Can Be Liable
If a product manufacturer knowingly sells a dangerous product like an inclined infant sleeper, they could be held liable for injuries or deaths caused by their product. A store that knowingly continues to sell a dangerous or recalled product to consumers may also have some liability in a personal injury claim.
Don't hesitate to reach out to Shay + Associates Law Firm if you require the expertise of a skilled personal injury lawyer in Springfield or Decatur, Illinois.