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Personal Injury
Strict and Negligent Products Liability
E-Cigarette Explosion

Joshua Peters v. HL Vapors LLC dba The Vapors, et al.

Published: Mar. 9, 2018 | Result Date: Feb. 15, 2018 | Filing Date: Nov. 16, 2016 |

Case number: BC640699 Settlement –  $15,000

Judge

Benny C. Osorio

Court

Los Angeles County Superior Court


Attorneys

Plaintiff

Gregory L. Bentley
(Bentley & More LLP)

Keith P. More
(Bentley & More LLP)


Defendant

Robert T. Bergsten
(Hosp, Gilbert & Bergsten)

Anna M. Asiano
(Clark Hill LLP)


Facts

A minor plaintiff filed suit against several defendants, including Kennedy Vapor, Inc. dba Kennedy Enterprises, in connection with the e-cigarette.

Contentions

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS: Plaintiff contended that the e-cigarette, which he received from a friend, exploded while he was smoking it. Plaintiff contended negligent and strict products liability.

DEFENDANTS' CONTENTIONS: Defendants disputed liability and product defects. The defense also argued the plaintiff's friend who allegedly purchased the e-cigarette at issue shared in potential liability.

Damages

Plaintiff's medical bills totaled $10,000 at the time of the settlement.

Injuries

Plaintiff claimed that, due to the e-cigarette's explosion, he suffered burns.

Result

The court approved a settlement reached between the plaintiff and Kennedy Vapor, Inc. dba Kennedy Enterprises totaling $15,000 in connection with this defendant's proportional share of total liability.


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