RYOBI RY40602 – Product Liability Lawyer

2026-03-02 – A RYOBI hedge trimmer has been linked to a severe laceration incident resulting in hospitalization, according to a report filed with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) SaferProducts.gov database. The incident involves the RYOBI RY40602 model, manufactured by One World Technologies, Inc., and highlights a design defect that led to the amputation of three fingers.

Product Details

Brand Name: RYOBI
Manufacturer: One World Technologies, Inc.
Model: RY40602
Incident Report Number: 5891334
Severity Type Name: Hospital Admission
Severity Type ID: 10

Incident Overview

On September 2, 2023, a consumer was using a RYOBI RY40602 hedge trimmer when the device unexpectedly operated without the trigger lock-out and switch trigger being simultaneously depressed. According to the incident report filed with the CPSC (Report ID: 5891334), the consumer's hand was on the blade assembly at the time of the unintended activation, resulting in the amputation of three fingers.

The incident report describes a design defect in which the hedge trimmer could engage without the proper safety sequence, posing a serious laceration hazard. The consumer required hospital admission for treatment. No prior issues with the product were noted in the report, and the consumer retained the packaging. The incident underscores the critical importance of safety mechanisms in power tools.

Safety Concerns

Immediate Dangers: The primary danger is severe laceration or amputation when the blade activates unexpectedly. In this case, the failure of the trigger lock-out system allowed the blade to operate while the user's hand was in contact with the assembly, leading to traumatic injury.

Long-Term Risks: Such injuries can result in permanent loss of function, chronic pain, and psychological trauma. Amputation of fingers may require extensive rehabilitation and can affect the user's ability to perform daily tasks or work.

Who Might Be Affected: The device user is most at risk, particularly if the hedge trimmer is used without full awareness of the defect. Bystanders or helpers near the blade area could also be injured if the trimmer activates unexpectedly.

Warning Signs: Users may notice that the trimmer operates without depressing both the lock-out and trigger, or that the blade engages with minimal pressure. Any unexpected activation should be treated as a serious warning.

What Our Clients Say

What Consumers Should Do

Stop Using Immediately: Cease use of the RYOBI RY40602 hedge trimmer until the manufacturer or CPSC provides further guidance. Continued use could lead to serious injury.

Preserve the Product: Keep the hedge trimmer, including all components and packaging, in a safe place. This evidence may be crucial for any investigation or potential legal claim.

Document the Incident: Take photographs of the product, the scene, and any injuries. Write down details of the incident, including date, time, and how the injury occurred.

Seek Medical Attention: If you have been injured, seek medical care immediately. Even seemingly minor cuts can become infected or cause nerve damage.

Report to the CPSC: File a report at SaferProducts.gov to help regulators identify dangerous products and potential recalls.

Check for Recalls: Monitor CPSC.gov and RYOBI's official website for any recall notices or safety alerts related to the RY40602 model.

Consumers who have suffered injury or property damage may want to speak with a product liability attorney about their legal options.

Manufacturer's Response

The manufacturer's official response to this specific incident report is not publicly available at the time of this writing. Consumers are encouraged to monitor CPSC.gov and RYOBI's official channels for updates or safety communications.

Legal Help Available

H Law Group is a California product liability law firm representing individuals injured by defective products. We offer free consultations and handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation. The reported design defect and severity of injury in this incident underscore the importance of holding manufacturers accountable. If you or a loved one was injured by RYOBI RY40602 or a similar product, contact H Law Group at (888) 499-4948 for a free, no-obligation consultation.