Taking care of your lawn can be something you enjoy or just another item on your to-do list. In either case, you may need to use some powerful equipment to get the job done.
Landscaping equipment is often designed to cut, drive or haul heavy loads. Due to the nature of these tasks, the tools can be hazardous. But in some cases, a machine is not just dangerous: it is defective.
What makes a tool defective?
There are several types of landscaping equipment and tools you might regularly use, from simple tools like rakes and shovels to sophisticated electrical machines. Some of the most common equipment people use for lawn care include:
- Lawnmowers
- Hedge trimmers
- Ladders
- Saws
- Leaf blowers
- String trimmers
These tools often have electrical components, blades and engines. If this equipment is faulty in the way it is designed, manufactured or sold, the flaws put users at risk of injury or death. Thus, defective landscaping products can cause:
- Electrical burns
- Shocks
- Severe cuts and lacerations
- Eye injuries
- Falls
- Punctures
Blades can come loose; guards can fail; electrical components could be made or repaired with substandard materials. All of these could support a product liability claim.
Protecting yourself from defective equipment
When you are tackling a landscaping job, there are ways you can protect yourself from potentially defective equipment.
First, wear protective clothing. This might include eyewear, long pants and gloves that can keep you safe from hazards like flying shards and debris.
It can also be wise to inspect your equipment before using it. Take a look at the blades, cords and other components to make sure they are intact and functioning correctly.
If you discover something does not look right or the tool is not working as it should, stop using it right away and have a trained party make the necessary repairs.
These tips can prevent many accidents involving landscaping tools. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to spot a defective product until it causes a devastating injury.
In these situations, holding the party responsible for the defect accountable can be the best way to protect yourself and prevent others from experiencing a similar accident. You can call the Quinn Law Firm at 814-806-2518 for a free consultation if you think you may have a product liability claim.
