Posted in News on March 20, 2012
Montana residents who may have heard of the hair-straightening product Brazilian Blowout will be interested to know that the company that manufactures it recently settled a product liability lawsuit for $4.5 million. Brazilian Blowout became the subject of a number of government inquiries and health complaints, and as a result, a class action lawsuit was filed to the hold manufacturer liable.
The New York Times recently reported that, under the terms of the recent agreement, consumers harmed by Brazilian Blowout will receive $35 for each treatment up to three treatments. Stylists who purchased the dangerous product will also receive a reimbursement of up to $75 per bottle. In addition, the company is no longer allowed to market the product as formaldehyde-free and will be required to provide safety instructions.
The manufacturer, which is based in California, agreed to pay $600,000 in a settlement earlier this year. Brazilian Blowout also agreed to warn consumers that the product emits formaldehyde gas, which is listed as a carcinogen by the federal government. The company’s chief executive said the settlement would allow the company to bring an end to an unpleasant period and move forward with their operations.
Readers in Montana probably know that companies that use complex and dangerous chemicals to manufacture products have a legal obligation to warn consumers if a product poses health hazards. Dangerous products can cause serious injuries, and if consumers don’t bring their injuries to the attention of regulators and the legal system in general, the products remain on the shelves and can potentially harm more people.
Billings residents who have product liability concerns may do well to explore the legal options not only for obtaining due compensation, but also to help protect their community from personal injury.
Source: The New York Times, “Maker of a hair-straightening product settles lawsuit,” Andrew Martin, March 5, 2012