Cases That Made A Difference

Lamp Explosions Lawsuit Leads to Warning

Utility lamps manufactured by the Carol Cable Company now warn of the danger of an explosion because of a 1984 New Jersey verdict. The lamps are used for work on cars and construction where the worker's hands must be free.

An auto body mechanic was using such a lamp while removing the gas tank from a damaged car when gasoline vapors reacted with the electrical switch and light bulb filament, causing an explosion. The plaintiff, a man in his 30s, suffered third-degree burns over 45 percent of his body. He can no longer work as a mechanic. After a jury verdict for the plaintiff, the lamp manufacturer placed written warnings on packaging that informed users not to use the lamp near flammable vapors.

Queiros v. Carol Cable Co., N.J., Essex County Superior Court, No. L-51272-81, 1984.