November 14th, 2024 (Chicago, IL) – Medical King has recalled approximately 222,000 adult portable bed rails due to significant entrapment and asphyxia hazards that have resulted in one reported fatality. Chicago consumers should be aware of the bed rail recall details, safety risks, and legal options for injured victims.
Overview of the Medical King Bed Rail Recall
The Medical King bed rail recall involves portable bed rails that pose entrapment risks because users can get stuck within the rail or between the rail and the bed mattress. This hazard has already resulted in one fatality involving a 66-year-old user in a residential care facility in 2023.
What Models Are Affected by the Bed Rail Recall?
The Medical King recall involves three models: the Bed Assist Rail with Adjustable Heights (models 7007 and 7057) and the Bed Assist Rail Without Legs (model 7037). The adjustable height bed rails are made from metal tubing that is black or white, and they feature a rounded foam handle and a fabric pouch. Those without legs are made of silver metal tubing and are equipped with a black rubber grip handle and fabric pouch. The bed rails do not have model numbers or brand-specific labeling on them.
The recalled bed rails were manufactured in China and sold by a variety of online stores from January 2020 through March 2024. Their cost was approximately $40 via Amazon.com, Walmart.com, Kohls.com, Target Plus, eBay, and medicalkingusa.com.
What Are the Risks Associated With Recalled Bed Rails?
The recalled Medical King bed rails pose significant risks, especially to individuals with limited mobility or strength. To date, the manufacturer has received one report of a fatality associated with the Bed Assist Rails. The death involved model number 7007 (Bed Assist Rail with Adjustable Heights). According to reports, the 66-year-old victim died after becoming trapped in between the bed rail and the man’s mattress.
Key hazards of the Medical King bed rails include:
- Entrapment Risks: The recalled bed rails can trap users within the rail, or between the rail and their mattress.
- Suffocation: Bed rail entrapment poses an asphyxia risk due to limited air supply, which can cause severe injury or death.
- Injury: Physical entrapment between the bed rails and the mattress may lead to bruising, fractures, or other injuries if the user tries to free themselves unsuccessfully.
- Risk of Injury in Vulnerable Populations: Elderly adults or those with physical disabilities are particularly vulnerable to these risks, as they may lack the strength or awareness to escape if entrapped.
Filing a Product Liability Claim for Bed Rail Injuries
Under Illinois law, manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their products. They can be held financially liable if their products cause harm to users, even if the products have been recalled. If you were injured because of the dangerous bed rails, you can file a product liability claim to recover damages for your medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Steps for Consumers With Affected Bed Rails
Consumers should stop using these products immediately. Medical King is offering a free repair kit or replacement, depending on the model. To obtain assistance, contact Medical King through their recall hotline or website. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is also urging consumers to report bed rail injuries to the agency at www.SaferProducts.gov.
Do You Need a Lawyer to Sue for Bed Rail Injuries?
You are not legally required to hire an injury lawyer to sue a manufacturer for bed rail injuries. Handling a product liability case on your own, however, can be challenging. This is especially true if you are still healing from your injuries or coping with the death of a loved one. Hiring an experienced product liability lawyer near you ensures that your rights and your ability to recover compensation are protected. Your attorney will determine whether you have a product liability case, help you gather evidence to support your injury claim, negotiate with the other side and their attorneys, and represent you in court if your case goes to trial.
CPSC Issues Warning About All Adult Portable Bed Rails
The Medical King Bed Assist Rails are not the only adult bed rails that have proven dangerous in recent years. In fact, the CSPC has issued nine bed rail recalls and two product warnings involving over 3 million unreasonably dangerous units in the last three years alone. Since 2021, the federal agency reports that adult portable bed rails are linked to more than 18 suffocation deaths since 2021. According to the agency, approximately 92% of bed rail fatalities involve entrapment, most commonly from the head or neck.
To minimize risks with bed rails, verify that they comply with current safety standards, especially when used by older adults or those with limited mobility. Choose models that have been rigorously tested and are recommended for adult use, as some rails are designed only for children or specific medical settings. Additionally, inspect bed rails regularly for signs of wear, such as loose screws or weakened joints, and ensure they’re securely fastened according to manufacturer guidelines. Proper installation is crucial to prevent gaps that can lead to entrapment or injury.
Keeping up with manufacturer updates and potential recalls is also essential. Bed rail recalls can occur if safety issues arise, so it’s helpful to register products or stay informed through relevant health and safety websites. Consumers can also refer to the official CPSC website for updates on bed rail recalls.
For further details on the recall, or for help with an injury claim, contact our product liability lawyers at Ankin Law in Chicago. Our attorneys offer free consultations and there are no attorney fees unless we win your case.
