California Injury Blog
An infant in South Carolina may have suffered fatal personal injuries after his mother used a bug spray in their mobile home, according to an Associated Press news report. The 10-month-old boy, Jacob Whitfield, died and his 2-year-old brother is in critical condition, officials say. The boys’ mother had apparently been using foggers in their mobile home because of an insect problem. On November 1, 2009, 25-year-old Elizabeth Whitfield called emergency personnel to report that her baby was struggling to breathe. Jacob died. His brother, Kenneth Whitfield, remained on a respirator, but is expected to stabilize.
Mom Says She Followed Directions
Officials say these foggers are commonly used to get rid of common bugs and insects. Elizabeth Whitfield apparently told officials that she was following all the directions. The directions on the product call for residents to cover all furniture, vacate the home for four hours and then open windows and doors for an hour before returning.
My heart goes out to the Whitfield family. I offer my deepest condolences to them for the loss of little Jacob. I hope and pray that Kenneth and his mom will make a quick and complete recovery. Please keep this grieving family in your prayers.
Product Liability Issues
Based on this news report, it seems to me that this woman may not have properly understood how to use this bug spray. She apparently told officials that she followed all the directions. I wonder if the directions in the package said how often the fogger should or should not be used. Was there adequate warning on the packaging about the frequency of use? This incident is a tragic reminder for all of us to make sure that the products we use in our home are safe, especially around young children, who are more sensitive and susceptible to adverse effects.
If the Whitfield family suspects that the packaging information was misleading of if they are dealing with a defective product, it would be in their best interest to consult with an experienced products liability lawyer, who will advise them about their legal rights and options.
The Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.