The cords used on many different types of blinds used to cover windows have been known as a dangerous product where children are concerned for some time. The reason is the strangulation possibility presented by the cords that are used to adjust them.

Another recall of blinds was recently issued by both the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission as well as the product's manufacturer, Blind Xpress. The recall came after the death of a 2-year-old girl who was strangled by the cord.

In total, 364,000 blinds sold in various states by Blind Xpress are included in the recall. Of that amount, approximately 39,000 are vertical and the remaining 315,000 horizontal. They were on the market for over 15 years and sold at a variety of price points, from $16 to $380 per blind. Free repair kits have been offered to consumers who have purchased the blinds. Owners have been instructed to stop using them until the kit is used.

The defect associated with this product appears to be with its design. The adjustment cord on the blinds that hang vertically is a big loop that is not in any way attached to either the floor or the wall. The blinds that hang horizontally do not contain a cord stop device which makes it possible for a child to pull pout the strings holding the blinds together, creating here again, a dangerous loop.

Design defects are just one basis for a products liability case. While these kinds of cases are often very complicated, for many who have been injured or lost a loved one because of a dangerous or defective product, they are a good way to hold those who are negligent financially responsible.

Source: CBS News, "Blind Xpress and CPSC recall window blinds after Michigan toddler was strangled to death," Sept. 7, 2012