Products are recalled far more often than people realize, including everything from food and medications to cars and household appliances. When a manufacturer or regulatory agency issues a recall, it means the product poses some kind of risk—whether it’s a safety hazard, contamination issue, or manufacturing defect.
If you find out that you own a recalled product, knowing what steps to take can not only protect you and your family from harm but also make sure that you get fair compensation for your purchase.
Identify the Recall Details
The first step when dealing with a recalled product is to gather all the relevant details. You may need them for a product liability claim.
To check if a product has been recalled, you can visit official government recall websites, look at the manufacturer’s website, or search online.
News outlets and social media platforms often report major recalls, too. If you get a notification in the mail or see a posting in a store or on a product company, take the time to verify the details.
Recalls are typically announced by manufacturers, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), depending on the product type. These agencies provide recall notices that include the product name, model number, batch or lot number, and a description of the issue.
Stop Using the Product Immediately
If you confirm that an item you own has been recalled, stop using it right away. Even if you haven’t experienced any problems with it, the recall was issued for a reason, and continuing to use the product could put you or others at risk.
If you’ve already suffered an injury, you should contact an experienced product liability attorney immediately to discuss your rights and options.
For recalled food items, don’t eat them and keep them separate from other food to prevent cross-contamination. In cases of recalled medications, don’t take any more doses until you have spoken with a pharmacist or doctor about alternatives.
Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions
Once they’ve announced a recall, manufacturers typically provide instructions on what to do next.
Often, they’ll offer a refund, replacement, or repair. The recall will typically outline the required steps to take, like returning the item to the store, mailing it back to the manufacturer, or taking it to an authorized repair center.
Manufacturers will often offer free repairs for recalled vehicles at specific dealerships, so it’s important to schedule an appointment with them as soon as possible.
If the recall involves a product that must be disposed of, follow the provided guidelines. Some products, like certain batteries or electronics, require specific disposal methods due to environmental or safety concerns.
Never attempt to fix a recalled product on your own unless the manufacturer provides a safe repair kit.
Contact the Manufacturer or Retailer
If you’re not sure how to proceed with the recall process, contacting the manufacturer or retailer directly should provide clarity.
Companies usually set up dedicated customer service lines to handle recall inquiries. When you call or email, be ready to provide information such as the product name, model number, and purchase details. They will guide you through the process if a refund or replacement is offered.
For products purchased from a retailer, stores often participate in recalls by allowing you to return recalled items, even if you don’t have a receipt.
Large retailers may have their own policies regarding refunds or exchanges, so it’s worth checking with them before throwing the product away.
Check for Related Recalls
If one product in your household has been recalled, checking whether related products might also be affected is a good idea. Manufacturers sometimes recall multiple versions of the same item or issue expanded recalls after further investigation.
If you purchased an item from the same brand or product line, verifying that it’s still considered safe is a good idea. This is particularly important for baby products, medical devices, and household appliances, where defects pose serious risks.
Report Any Issues
If a defective or recalled product has injured you or a loved one, report the incident to the appropriate agency.
The CPSC, FDA, and NHTSA all have systems in place to let buyers file complaints about unsafe products. Reporting an issue not only helps authorities track dangerous products but also helps encourage potential legal action against negligent manufacturers.
Also, if you believe a product should be recalled but hasn’t been, you can file a report with the corresponding product agency. These reports are vital in identifying previously unnoticed products that may be dangerous and preventing them from causing further harm.
Stay Informed About Future Recalls
Keeping track of product recalls can help you act quickly if another item in your home is affected. Signing up for recall alerts from agencies like the CPSC, FDA, or NHTSA ensures you receive updates as soon as new recalls are issued.
Many manufacturers also allow customers to register their products, especially electronics, vehicles, and appliances.
Registering your purchase allows companies to notify you directly if a recall is announced.
Another way to stay informed is by regularly visiting recall websites or consumer protection news sources regularly. Not every recall makes headlines, but by staying proactive, you can quickly address potential hazards before they become a serious problem.
At Forbes Law Offices, we’ve learned from experience that handling a recalled product properly (and quickly) can be essential in protecting yourself and others from potential harm.
Whether it’s a defective car part, contaminated food, or a faulty appliance, addressing the issue quickly helps minimize risks and contributes to overall consumer safety.
If you or someone you care for has suffered injury due to a faulty product, we’re here to help.
