§2084 Information reporting

Summary

Manufacturers must tell the Commission when a single model of a consumer product is the subject of at least 3 lawsuits (filed in state or federal court) that end in either a final settlement involving the manufacturer or a court judgment for the plaintiff, where those cases fall into the same 24‑month period. The report for the third such case must be sent within 30 days after that settlement or judgment. Any later settlement or judgment for that model in the same 24‑month period must also be reported within 30 days. The 24‑month periods begin January 1, 1991, and then start again every two years on January 1. The report must give the manufacturer’s name and address, the product model and model number or designation, say whether the suit alleged death or grievous bodily injury (and the injury category if grievous), say whether it ended in a settlement or a plaintiff’s judgment, and, for judgments, give the case name, case number, and court. A manufacturer may also say if a judgment is on appeal or add other voluntary details. The report does not have to include how much was paid in any settlement. Sending a report is not an admission of defect, liability, a product hazard, or similar fault. Grievous bodily injury includes things like mutilation, amputation, dismemberment, disfigurement, loss of important body functions, debilitating internal disorder, severe burn, severe electric shock, or injuries likely to need long hospitalization. A “particular model” means a model that is distinct in design, construction, warnings/instructions, intended users, or other traits affecting safety.