In March 2024, Susan Zabransky filed a Samsung class action lawsuit against Samsung Electronics America, Inc. and Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. The complaint alleges that certain Samsung’s top-loading washing machines are defective due to a corrosion issue with the flange at the bottom of the tub, which can deteriorate prematurely, often within a year of purchase. The complaint contends that Samsung has been aware of this issue since 2013 but has failed to adequately address it or inform consumers.
At Sparrow, we simplify the process of discovering and claiming funds from class action settlements. Our expertise ensures that potential claimants navigate the complexities of the claims process, ensuring they understand their rights and make it easier to file claims without extensive paperwork. We’ve successfully helped a few individuals get the money they deserve from high-profile settlements, such as the recent class action involving Panera.
With our extensive experience, we’ve crafted this blog so you can learn the allegations involved and other details of the Samsung class action lawsuit. We’ll also discuss the lawsuit’s timeline and how to stay updated on the legal proceedings. As the case progresses, we’ll continue to update this blog with the information you need to participate effectively in the legal process and secure compensation for your claims.
Let’s get started!
Samsung Company Background
Samsung is a leading global electronics company, well-known for creating a wide range of Android smartphones, televisions, and home appliances. It is one of the most dominant electronics manufacturers on the market and enjoys a reputation for quality products. However, as this class action would attest, Samsung’s products are not completely free of defects.
With its significant market share, Samsung has inevitably become the target of multiple legal challenges over the years. The latest Samsung class action lawsuit concerns the company’s top-loading washing machines, which are alleged to have fundamental design defects preventing them from operating as intended. Despite Samsung’s history of innovations in laundry appliances, these alleged defects could have severe repercussions for the company.
Case Details: Samsung Class Action Lawsuit
Filed on March 8, 2024, the Samsung class action lawsuit alleges that Samsung knowingly sold top-loading washing machines with a defect prone to premature rusting. The lawsuit claims that once the flange begins to corrode, it releases particles into the washing machine during cycles, contaminating clothes and causing drainage problems.
Allegations
The Zabransky v. Samsung class action lawsuit is centered on allegations of defective design and manufacturing of Samsung top-loader washing machines. Specifically, it pertains to a flange defect that causes the bottom tub flange to develop rust quickly.
Here’s the breakdown of the allegations:
- Fraudulent Concealment: According to consumers, Samsung knew about the corrosion issue as early as 2013 but did not inform their customers. Failure to disclose the defect constitutes fraudulent concealment, as Samsung misled consumers about the quality and safety of their washing machines.
- Product Liability: The premature corrosion of the flange significantly impairs the washing machines’ functionality. This defective design falls under product liability, as it prevents the products from delivering the functionality that Samsung advertised.
- Breach of Warranty: Since some washing machines allegedly corrode within a year of purchase, allowing the defect to persist unaddressed violates implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.
- Negligence: The premature corrosion and potential detachment of the drum pose significant safety risks to the washing machine’s users. Since Samsung allegedly made no effort to fix these issues or warn customers, they can be considered negligent for compromising customers’ safety.
- Financial Damages: Plaintiffs argue that Samsung’s responses to previous complaints have been insufficient. Instead of fixing the issue, Samsung often suggested superficial solutions that customers had to pay for themselves, like cleaning and expensive service maintenance.
The flange’s premature corrosion releases particles and debris into the washing machine. These particles attach to clothing and clog hoses, preventing proper drainage. Such corrosion can cause the drum to detach during operation, posing serious safety risks and lasting damage.
Samsung’s negligence and concealment of the issue could be the most severe allegations, as shown by a similar case, the Seresto Tick and Flea Collar lawsuit.
Company’s Stance on the Case
Samsung has far denied the allegations in the latest class action lawsuit, asserting that its top-loading washing machines are safe and reliable. They assert that the issues experienced by customers are isolated incidents and not representative of a widespread defect. Samsung also emphasizes that the free repairs and refunds it has given out have sufficiently addressed customer complaints.
It is worth noting that Samsung’s stance on the matter has been sparse. As the Samsung class action lawsuit progresses, their statement on the case may change. They may pivot toward accepting the assertion that there is indeed a defect and potentially detail the steps they have taken or plan to take to fix it.
Settlement Details
As of now, there are no specific settlement details available for the Samsung class action lawsuit. Samsung may initially propose to redouble its efforts in providing repairs, replacements, or refunds for affected customers. However, as the evidence grows, proving that the issues persist regardless of these efforts, Samsung will have to provide monetary compensation to affected consumers and commensurate to the severity of the allegations that can be proven.
The fact that Samsung had knowledge of the defect and yet continued to sell the products leads to the most severe allegations of negligence and fraudulent concealment. These two allegations together could inflate the proposed settlement and increase payouts for class members, adding inconvenience and endangering customers’ well-being to the other damages they have to answer for.
Timeline of Action for Samsung Class Action Lawsuit
This Samsung class action lawsuit, Zabransky v. Samsung Electronics America, Inc., is still in its early stages. It has yet to continue beyond the initial filing and preliminary motions. Key developments to look for include:
- Filing Date: The Samsung class action lawsuit was filed on March 8, 2024, in the US District Court for the District of New Jersey.
- Claim Deadline: The court has not yet specified the deadline for filing a claim.
- Final Hearing: The date for the final hearing has not been set. It will be scheduled after the preliminary hearings are over and a proposed settlement has been pre-approved.
- Payout Date: The payout date for those who have filed claims will be determined after the final hearing and the court’s approval of the settlement details.
As the case progresses through the legal system, stay tuned for key dates that have not yet been specified. Sparrow will keep you updated about further details on what progress has been made with the lawsuit.
How to Stay Updated on Lawsuit Proceedings
If you’re interested in or are a potential class member of the Zabransky v. Samsung class action lawsuit, it’s crucial to stay updated on the lawsuit’s proceedings. This ensures that you remain informed about your case developments and any potential compensation you may be entitled to. Here are some ways to help you out:
Step 1: Check Official Court Records
The official website of the US District Court for the District of New Jersey contains the latest filings and court dates related to the Zabransky v. Samsung class action lawsuit. This ensures you have direct access to the most current legal proceedings and updates concerning the case.
Step 2: Visit Dedicated Class Action Lawsuit Websites
Samsung will publish updates on its official media sites, providing insights directly from the company about the lawsuit’s developments and any potential resolutions. For additional information, you can also check reputable sites like Sparrow, which offer case summaries, updates, and guidance on participating in the lawsuit and processing claims efficiently.
Step 3: Join Consumer Groups
Explore online forums or consumer advocacy groups that focus on class action lawsuits, particularly those concerning Samsung class action lawsuits. Doing so will connect you with a community sharing information and updates about the case, ensuring you stay informed about critical developments.
Step 4: Consult Legal Counsel
If you would like personalized assistance in staying on top of the lawsuit’s developments, consulting legal counsel specializing in class action lawsuits may be right for you. At Sparrow, we provide services for class action discovery and claims submission to guarantee that you get the compensation you deserve.
Step 5: Monitor News Outlets
Established news outlets that cover commercial and legal news in detail can give you critical updates on how the case is progressing. Some may even provide insights that official court sources and Samsung’s media outlets can’t, offering a broader perspective on the implications and outcomes of the lawsuit.
Key Takeaway
The Zabransky v. Samsung class action lawsuit is another example of a corporation refusing to address the early signs of what can potentially be a widespread issue. Now that evidence of negligence and consumer deception is coming to light, that issue can lead to severe consequences for the company, as it has for the consumers.
Familiarize yourself with the specifics of the lawsuit and stay updated on Samsung class action lawsuit developments so you can submit a claim on time and be among the first to receive a payout. Be sure to keep all your relevant documents in place, such as proof of purchase and records of repairs, to support your claim without bottlenecks as soon as the notice to submit a claim is issued.
Are you someone who could potentially be a class member in this developing lawsuit? Sparrow will give you personalized guidance on how to join the class action lawsuit and take other proactive steps to protect your rights. We have the tools to help you stay on top of the lawsuit’s progress and submit timely claims, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.