Hazards and Accidents from Defective Power Wheelchairs

Even basic models of power wheelchairs can become fodder for claims of defective medical devices.

Power wheelchairs can be prone to accidents involving: 

  • electrical shorts;
  • inability to handle operator weight;
  • stability issues;
  • improper construction; and
  • many other types of manufacturer defects. 


In addition to these common hazards, many power wheelchairs are produced to meet specific medical needs. More advanced chairs can be equipped with additional medical devices such as respirators and monitors. Each additional component increases the risk of a product defect causing serious injury.

As with any mobility device, an error in the control system could cause loss of control of the wheelchair. Because the operators are generally too incapacitated to assist themselves in the event of a loss of control, the injuries sustained from this accident are often more severe.

Common Injuries Resulting From a Defective Power Wheelchair

Impact injuries are most common with power wheelchairs when they become unstable, lose control, or cannot stand up to the operator's usage. Most power wheelchairs are sold after a consultation with a professional salesman who should take care in evaluating your needs and providing a chair that will stand up to your weight and degree of use.

When a power wheelchair fails to properly maintain stability for the users and accommodate their needs, or if a manufacturer defect causes a hazard, serious injury can occur.

The commonly seen injuries in claims for these defective medical devices include: 

  • burns;
  • bruising;
  • internal bleeding;
  • head trauma;
  • spinal cord damage; and
  • broken or fractured bones. 


Many of these injuries are caused by impact from being thrown from the chair, either in a collision due to loss of control or from abrupt failure and stopping. Burns can occur when an electrical short causes electrocution or fire, or from overheating of the motor.

St. Louis defective products attorneys have seen a variety of serious, sometimes fatal injuries arise from defective medical devices such as power wheelchairs. Our loved ones rely on their power wheelchair to improve their life, not pose another potential risk to their well-being. For injuries sustained from a defective medical device, you need experienced legal help from St. Louis defective products attorneys.

Contacting St. Louis Defective Products Attorneys 

When a defective product causes serious injury or death, the liable party needs to be held accountable for negligence. Filing a Missouri product liability claim is no easy feat, but with the help of experienced St. Louis defective products attorneys, you can feel confident knowing your case is in good hands, while you focus on your recovery and getting your life back on track. To get started with determining if you have a viable defective product case, contact the Missouri product liability team at Bollwerk & Tatlow, LLC - 314-315-8111.