Case Results
Recalled Bed Assist Handle Causes Tragic Death: A Case for Manufacturer Accountability
Brand Name
Drive Medical Adjustable height bed assist
Manufacturer
Drive Devilbiss Healthcare
Model Name
RTL15063-Adj
Product Description
Transactions Drive Medical RTL15063-ADJ Adjustable Height Home Bed Assist Handle Sold by: Amazon.com Services, Inc
Case Details
On January 24, 2024, a 93-year-old woman living in an assisted care facility tragically lost her life due to asphyxiation caused by entrapment in a Drive Medical RTL15063-ADJ Adjustable Height Home Bed Assist Handle.
According to reports, the elderly woman rolled out of bed and became trapped beside the bed assist handle, ultimately choking to death. The incident was deemed a suspicious death, and both police and a medical examiner were called to investigate. After an examination, the cause of death was determined to be asphyxiation caused by the bed assist device.
This tragedy is part of a larger safety concern, as this very product has been recalled due to entrapment and asphyxiation hazards.
Injury Brief
While bed assist handles are designed to help seniors and individuals with mobility issues, they can pose serious dangers when poorly designed. Key risks include:
- Entrapment hazards, where users can become stuck between the bed rail and mattress.
- Asphyxiation risks, especially for elderly or disabled individuals who cannot free themselves.
- Lack of proper safety warnings and testing by manufacturers.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), entrapment deaths involving bed rails are a recurring issue, with multiple incidents reported over the years.
Retailers
The Drive Medical RTL15063-ADJ Adjustable Height Home Bed Assist Handle was sold through major retailers, including:
If you purchased this product, discontinue use immediately and check recall information for potential refunds or replacements.
Liability
Manufacturers and retailers of medical assistive devices have a legal duty to ensure their products are safe for consumer use. Companies like Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare and retailers such as Amazon must:
- Properly test and evaluate bed assist products for safety risks.
- Issue clear warnings about potential entrapment dangers.
- Recall defective products promptly and notify consumers effectively.
Failure to take these steps puts vulnerable individuals at risk and may make companies liable for injuries and deaths caused by their products.
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