Illinois Resident Files Lawsuit After Pressure Cooker Explosion Causes Severe Burns

Pressure cookers, designed for efficient and rapid cooking, have become a staple in many kitchens. However, these appliances can pose significant risks, and when they malfunction, the consequences can be devastating. An Illinois resident has recently filed a lawsuit after suffering severe burns from a pressure cooker explosion, highlighting the potential dangers associated with defective kitchen appliances. This incident underscores the importance of product safety and the legal recourse available to those injured by faulty products.

The Incident: A Kitchen Nightmare

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of Illinois on January 13, 2026, involves a Farberware-branded pressure cooker purchased at Walmart. According to the complaint, the pressure cooker exploded during normal use, causing the Illinois resident to sustain severe burns requiring medical treatment. The plaintiff, Taylor D. Morgan, alleges that Walmart failed to ensure the product met basic safety standards before offering it for sale. The suit claims that the pressure cooker, marketed as a safe and modern appliance with multiple safety mechanisms, failed to prevent a pressure-related failure, leading to the explosion.

Pressure Cooker Dangers: A Growing Concern

Pressure cookers work by trapping steam inside a sealed chamber, which significantly raises the internal pressure and temperature, and when safety systems fail, the sudden release of pressure can cause violent explosions, or forcefully eject boiling contents, placing users at risk of serious harm.

Several factors can contribute to pressure cooker explosions:

Defective Design: A flaw in the design of the pressure cooker can make it inherently unsafe.
Manufacturing Errors: Defects during the manufacturing process can lead to malfunctions.
Inadequate Safety Mechanisms: Failure of safety features, such as pressure release valves and lid-locking mechanisms, can result in dangerous explosions.
User Error: Although less common, improper use of a pressure cooker can also lead to accidents. However, many lawsuits, including the recent Illinois case, allege that the explosions occurred despite the user following all safety precautions.

Legal Recourse: Product Liability in Illinois

In Illinois, individuals injured by defective products can pursue legal action under product liability laws. These laws hold manufacturers, distributors, and retailers accountable for ensuring their products are safe for consumer use. A product liability claim can be based on several theories:

Strict Liability: This theory holds manufacturers and sellers responsible for injuries caused by defective products, regardless of negligence. The key is that the product was defectively designed, manufactured, or marketed, and that defect caused harm.
Negligence: A claim based on negligence requires proving that the manufacturer, distributor, or seller acted carelessly or failed to meet the standard of care required in the production or sale of the product.
Breach of Warranty: If a product does not meet the standards or promises set forth in a warranty, either express or implied, the injured party can seek compensation for breach of warranty.

To succeed in a product liability case in Illinois, the plaintiff must generally prove the following:

The injury resulted from a product condition or defect.
The product condition or defect was unreasonably dangerous.
The defect existed at the time the product left the defendant’s control.

Compensation for Burn Injuries in Illinois

Victims of pressure cooker explosions can seek compensation for various damages, including:

Medical Expenses: Covering hospital bills, surgeries, ongoing treatment, and rehabilitation.
Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work.
Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and emotional distress.
Permanent Disability: Compensation for life-altering injuries, such as disfigurement or amputations.
Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, additional damages may be awarded to punish the manufacturer.

Pressure Cooker Recalls and Lawsuits: A History of Problems

The recent lawsuit in Illinois is not an isolated incident. There has been a rapid increase in the number of pressure cooker lawsuits filed due to explosions, resulting in severe burns and injuries to users. Numerous recalls have been ordered across the country for a variety of issues.

Several major brands have faced lawsuits and recalls:

Instant Pot: In 2020, Instant Pot recalled over 100,000 units of its Gem 65 8-in-1 Multi-Cookers due to a fire hazard.
Crock-Pot: Sunbeam Products, the manufacturer of Crock-Pot Express pressure cookers, has faced lawsuits alleging misrepresentation of safety measures.
Tristar’s Power Pressure Cooker XL: This model faced lawsuits and recalls after numerous reports of explosions.
Best Buy/Insignia: In 2023, Best Buy/Insignia recalled several pressure cookers due to a burn hazard.

These recalls and lawsuits highlight the ongoing safety concerns associated with pressure cookers and the potential for serious injuries.

What to Do After a Pressure Cooker Explosion

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pressure cooker explosion, it is crucial to take the following steps:

Seek Medical Attention: Get immediate medical care for your injuries. Burn injuries can be severe and require specialized treatment.
Preserve Evidence: Retain the defective pressure cooker, along with its manual, packaging, and any receipts. This evidence will be crucial for your attorney to examine and determine whether it is defective.
Report the Incident: File a report with the manufacturer and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Consult an Attorney: An experienced Illinois product liability attorney can evaluate your case, gather evidence, hire experts, and negotiate with the manufacturer or their insurance company on your behalf.

Pressure Cooker Safety Tips

While manufacturers have a responsibility to produce safe products, consumers can also take steps to minimize the risk of accidents:

Read the Manual: Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Use Caution: Never leave a pressure cooker unattended while it is in operation.
Maintain the Appliance: Regularly inspect the pressure cooker for any signs of damage or wear.
Ensure Proper Sealing: Make sure the lid is properly sealed before use.
Release Pressure Safely: Allow the pressure to release naturally or use the quick-release method according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Never force the lid open while the cooker is still pressurized.
Do not overfill: Do not fill your pressure cooker above the suggested amount.
Proper Venting: Do not open the pressure cooker until the vent has properly released all the steam.

Conclusion

The lawsuit filed by an Illinois resident after a pressure cooker explosion serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking in our kitchens. Defective pressure cookers can cause severe burn injuries, leading to significant medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective pressure cooker, it is essential to seek legal guidance and understand your rights. By holding manufacturers accountable and raising awareness about product safety, we can work towards preventing future accidents and protecting consumers from harm.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you have been injured by a defective product, you should consult with a qualified attorney to discuss your legal options.