What To Know About Lithium-ion Batteries And Personal Injuries

The new lithium-ion batteries are claiming lives.

By Kathleen F. Beers, Esq.

Lithium-ion batteries have been around for decades, but in recent years they’ve been made with new technology for use in electric bikes and scooters at low cost and low quality.

The new lithium-ion batteries are claiming lives.

Last year, the Fire Department of New York reported 216 fires that were the result of lithium-ion batteries. The fires in New York resulted in 120 personal injuries and 14 deaths.

One lithium-ion battery fire happened at an e-bike store in June, killing four people who were in the New York store.

The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Division of Fire Safety in June began a safety campaign to raise awareness about the safe use and disposal of lithium-ion batteries.

Lithium-ion batteries are being used in devices such as smartphones, laptops, e-cigarettes, e-bikes, and cars due to their ability to store a significant amount of energy in a small space, according to a statement from the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety.

The batteries also can pose risks when exposed to high temperatures or handled improperly, they said.

In 2019, there were 30 fires caused by lithium-ion batteries with no deaths, the FDNY reported.

In 2022, firefighters responded to 220 fires caused by lithium-ion batteries, and six deaths were reported.

Lithium-ion batteries are found in everyday products like iPhones and laptops.

Fire officials blame most of these explosions, burn injuries and deaths on types of poorly manufactured batteries used for micro-mobility devices like e-bikes and electric scooters.

When left to charge overnight, a chain reaction called “thermal runaway” – an ejection of gas at extremely high temperatures – can take place in the battery.

The New York City Council this year passed a legislative package prohibiting the sale of battery devices and batteries that are not UL-certified.

For personal safety, while using and charging lithium-ion batteries, the National Fire Protection Administration recommends:

• Purchase and use devices that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.

• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Use only the battery that is designed for the device.

• Put batteries in the device the right way.

• Use only the charging cord that came with the device.

• Do not charge a device under your pillow, on your bed, or on a couch.

• Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it is fully charged.

• Keep batteries at room temperature when possible. Do not charge them at temperatures below 32°F (0°C) or above 105°F (40°C).

• Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire.

Cooper Levenson is a full-service law firm established in 1957. Kathleen F. Beers, Esq. handles personal injury law and can be reached at kbeers@cooperlevenson.com or (609) 572-7570.

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