If you have used a Philips Respironics Continuous or Non-Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Ventilator to treat a sleep disorder and the use has resulted in severe medical diagnoses, you may be entitled to significant compensation if you qualify for the Philips CPAP lawsuit. Unfortunately, there has been a Class I recall, the most severe type of recall, on the use of certain Philips CPAP and BiPAP devices due to the risk of exposure to debris and chemicals. The use of these machines has been linked to severe illnesses including respiratory conditions and cancer. Keep reading to learn if you are eligible for the Philips CPAP lawsuit. Discover how our determined Orlando Product Liability Attorneys can help you seek monetary compensation for your damages.
What is the Philips CPAP machine?
If you have a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea, a medical professional may have prescribed or recommended using a Continuous or Non-Continuous CPAP or BiPAP machine to provide invasive and non-invasive respiratory support while you sleep. These types of ventilators are commonly used in homes, hospitals, and other institutional settings to support the therapeutic needs of those with sleep disorders. As sleep disorders can cause you to stop breathing repeatedly throughout the night, these ventilators deliver pressurized air through the airway using a tube and mask which allows you to breathe through the night without any obstructions.
Why was the product recalled?
As mentioned above, these Philips products were recalled due to the risk of exposure to debris and chemicals. On June 14, 2021, Philips Respironics sent a letter to their customers requesting all users to discontinue the use of certain CPAP and BiPAP ventilators as it had been discovered that the polyester-based polyurethane (PE-PUR) sound abatement foam, used to reduce sound and vibrations, could potentially break down and enter the device’s air pathway. If this PE-PUR sound abatement foam enters the device’s air pathway, black debris, and chemicals may be released which could then be inhaled by users. This type of exposure has been linked to various health issues. It has caused irritation, inflammation, headaches, asthma, and other toxic carcinogenic effects.
How long do I have to pursue legal action?
If you have suffered a serious medical diagnosis as a result of using the Philips Respironics CPAP or BiPAP machines, it is critical to hire a qualified Orlando product liability attorney who can help you file a claim within the right time frame. In Florida, you have two years from the date of discovery to file a claim against a negligent party. Since Philips Respironics recalled the product in 2021, time is running out. If you fail to file a claim within the deadline, you will be barred from pursuing legal action in the future. Essentially, if you miss the deadline, you will forfeit your right to compensation for economic and noneconomic losses.
For more information on whether you qualify for the Philips CPAP lawsuit, contact an experienced Orlando product liability attorney. Our firm will work tirelessly to help you get the justice you deserve.
