Minnesota E-cigarette and Juul Lawsuits

Legally reviewed by:
Knutson and Casey Expert Legal Team
September 24, 2024

E-cigarette devices and Juuls are marketed as a safer alternative to smoking cigarettes. This misleading form of marketing is putting people at risk and has come under fire in recent years for unethically targeting younger demographics.

E-cigarette and vape victims claim these smoking devices are not safer than traditional smoking and can lead to seizures, lung diseases, and strokes. Additionally, the levels of nicotine in E-cigarettes and Juuls are higher than in traditional cigarettes. These devices can be much more addictive due to their efficiency in getting nicotine into the bloodstream. 

If you have used Juul or other E-cigarette devices and are experiencing nicotine addiction or pulmonary health conditions, depending on your case, you may be able to pursue legal action for possible compensation. 

What Is a Juul? 

A Juul, a brand of E-cigarette, is an electronic nicotine delivery device that vaporizes a liquid for inhaling through the mouth. The liquid used with a Juul is contained in a replaceable cartridge called a pod, which is typically infused with enticing flavors such as cotton candy, bubble gum, or pineapple. The flavor profiles and youthful customization of these devices can be seen as a clear intention of targeting a young demographic rather than marketing to adults. 

Pods contain ingredients including nicotine salts from tobacco, and just one pod contains as much nicotine as an entire pack of cigarettes. When the vapor from a Juul is inhaled, nicotine is then absorbed at the same rate as a regular tobacco cigarette. Juuls contain double the amount of nicotine in their pods compared to other brands of electronic cigarettes.

Juuls are especially known for their shape, as they are easily disguised as a USB flash drive. This is problematic as it makes it easier for people to conceal in public areas, such as schools. 

In 2017, about 11.7% of high school students used an E-cigarette; the number spiked to 27.5% by 2019. Middle school students also vaped as much as 10% more in 2019. In addition to the growing number of teen users, nearly two-thirds of teens, ages 15-21, were not aware that E-cigarettes contain nicotine.

Common Health Issues Due to Juuls and Electronic Cigarettes 

Juuls are marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, which is the furthest thing from the truth. These devices are highly addictive and dangerous. Some of the short-term effects of using E-cigarettes are lung deterioration, impaired vascular function, and increased heart rate. The FDA has also released a warning against smoking Juuls as a result of their connection in causing strokes and seizures. The nicotine used in the Juul pods is a known carcinogen and can affect teens and young adults’ brain and organ function. 

Lung Injuries Related to Electronic Cigarettes  

Following numerous deaths of vaping victims, the CDC warned that E-cigarettes, Juuls, or any other vaping devices should not be used in any circumstances since it can lead to rare pulmonary diseases that can cause potentially fatal breathing complications. Symptoms of lung-related injuries include: 

  • Coughing 
  • Shortness of breath 
  • Abdominal pain 
  • Fever 
  • Fatigue 
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Chest pain 
  • Popcorn lung 
  • Collapsed lung 
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Withdrawal symptoms are also associated with Juuls and electronic cigarettes, such as mood swings, mania, and depression. 

If you have developed health issues due to the use of a Juul or E-cigarette, consult an experienced Minnesota attorney about your unique case and what legal steps you need to take for justice. 

Explosions and Fires Related to Electronic Cigarettes 

E-cigarettes and Juuls have been found to explode or cause fires in the event of a lithium-ion battery failure or when it is loosely stored in a pocket or purse. This can also happen during use and cause second-degree and third-degree burns as well as hospitalizations. The most common areas that were injured in Juul-related explosions and fires are: 

  • Legs 
  • Thighs 
  • Genitals 
  • Hands 
  • Fingers 

Other injuries that can take place due to Juul-related explosions and fires include:

  • Facial and head trauma 
  • Loss of eyes, teeth, and tongue 

If you have been hurt or injured due to an E-cigarette or Juul battery failure, contact an attorney for a thorough assessment of your case. 

Can You File a Lawsuit Against Juul Inc.? 

If you have experienced a serious health condition that is linked to E-cigarette use, you may be able to file a lawsuit. Additionally, victims that have been diagnosed with addiction, seizures, or even lung conditions after vaping may be able to get justice for their injuries. If you are considering pursuing legal action, you may need to: 

  • Keep the E-cigarette device and any pods you’ve used 
  • Document how long and how much you vape 
  • Document how many vape pods you use in a typical day 

Consult an E-cigarette or Juul lawyer in Minnesota for a thorough assessment of your case.  

Contact Our Experienced E-cigarette Attorneys in Minnesota 

If you have developed lung conditions, lung disease, or any other medical condition due to smoking a Juul or other E-Cigarette brand, our dedicated team at Knutson + Casey are determined to help you with your case and provide a thorough assessment of your legal options going forward. 

If you or your teen has suffered due to Juul or E-cigarette use, the legal team at Knutson + Casey is on your side. We are diligent in handling complex cases and helping victims recover the compensation and justice they deserve. Call us today at (507) 344-8888 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation with one of our attorneys.

Knutson+Casey

LEGALLY REVIEWED BY

Knutson and Casey Expert Legal Team

September 24, 2024

At Knutson+Casey, we take the time to understand each distinctive matter presented to us by a client in need of assistance. We make certain that our clients understand their options and can make informed decisions regarding the progress of their cases. We have 4 bar certified attorneys as well as 5 expert paralegals on staff to review all legal information and cases presented.