USI – Product Liability Lawyer

2026-02-19 – A consumer reported a laceration injury involving a USI Electric product, according to a publicly filed incident report on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's SaferProducts.gov database. The report describes a design defect that caused a sharp edge to cut the user's thumb while attempting to remove the battery tray. The incident highlights potential safety concerns for owners of certain USI devices.

Product Details

Brand Name: USI
Manufacturer: USI Electric
Retailer: Milestone Electric
Incident Report Number: 5854622
Severity Type Name: First Aid Received by Non-Medical Professional
Severity Type ID: 7

Incident Overview

On January 18, 2026, a consumer was attempting to remove the battery tray from a USI Electric product when the tray became difficult to dislodge. In the process, the consumer's thumb was cut by a sharp edge on the tray or surrounding compartment, resulting in a laceration that required first aid administered by a non-medical professional. The consumer reported the incident to the CPSC through SaferProducts.gov, identifying the hazard as a laceration hazard caused by a design defect.

According to the incident report (ID 5854622), the product was purchased from Milestone Electric. The consumer noted that the battery tray was unusually hard to remove, and the sharp edge that caused the cut was directly associated with the tray's design. No prior issues were reported by the consumer, and the product was being used as intended at the time of the incident. The reporter retained the product and packaging, preserving evidence for further evaluation. The CPSC classified the severity as Type 7, meaning first aid was provided by a non-medical professional, indicating a non-life-threatening injury that nonetheless required immediate care.

Safety Concerns

Immediate Dangers: The primary immediate danger is the risk of a cut or laceration when handling the battery tray. The sharp edge can cause skin penetration and bleeding, as reported in this incident. Depending on the depth and location, such cuts may damage tendons, nerves, or blood vessels, requiring medical attention beyond basic first aid.

Long-Term Risks: Repeated or prolonged use of a product with a sharp edge increases the likelihood of injury over time. Even if the user avoids the sharp area initially, routine battery changes or maintenance could lead to accidental contact. Scars or infection from untreated cuts are potential long-term concerns.

Who Might Be Affected: Any person who interacts with the product—whether the owner, a family member, or a technician—is at risk. Children or elderly individuals with thinner skin may be more vulnerable to deeper cuts. The hazard is present during normal product use, such as replacing batteries.

Warning Signs: The difficulty in removing the battery tray itself serves as a warning sign. If the tray is unusually tight or requires excessive force, users should be cautious of potential sharp edges. A visual inspection of the tray and compartment for burrs or sharp metal edges may reveal the defect before injury occurs.

What Our Clients Say

What Consumers Should Do

Stop Using Immediately: If you have a USI Electric product with a battery tray that is difficult to remove, discontinue use until you can inspect the tray for sharp edges or contact the manufacturer.

Do Not Attempt Repairs: Do not try to file down or modify the sharp edge yourself, as this may void any warranty or create additional hazards. Leave any modifications to qualified professionals.

Preserve the Product: Keep the product, battery tray, and packaging in their current condition. This evidence is crucial if you decide to report the incident to the CPSC or seek legal advice.

Document the Incident: Take photographs of the sharp edge and any injury. Write down the date, time, and details of what happened. Save receipts or proof of purchase.

Seek Medical Attention: If you suffer a cut from a sharp edge, clean the wound thoroughly and apply first aid. For deep or infected cuts, see a healthcare provider.

Report to the CPSC: File a report at SaferProducts.gov to help the agency identify hazardous products and take action. Reference report ID 5854622.

Check for Recalls: Visit CPSC.gov to see if your USI Electric product has been recalled or is under investigation.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a product defect, you may want to speak with a product liability attorney about your options.

Manufacturer's Response

The manufacturer's official response to this specific incident report is not publicly available at the time of this writing.

Legal Help Available

H Law Group is a California-based product liability law firm dedicated to helping consumers injured by dangerous and defective products. We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Our team offers free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your situation and legal options. If you or a loved one was injured by USI or a similar product, contact H Law Group at (888) 499-4948 for a free, no-obligation consultation.