Peloton Recalls Treadmills After Injuries Death
Scartelli Peloton

Peloton Recalls Treadmills After Injuries & Death

Peter Olszewski
Peter Olszewski

Peloton Interactive is recalling both its Tread+ and Tread treadmills following more than 39 incidents, including the death of one child and dozens of other instances where users sustained injuries such as broken bones and cuts, announced today by Peloton and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CSPS).

These reports include adult users, children, pets and/or objects being pulled under the rear of the Tread+ treadmill, and reports of injuries to children such as second- and third-degree abrasions, broken bones, and lacerations. The company also notified the CPSC that its newer Peloton Tread’s touch screen can detach and fall, posing a risk of injury to consumers.

CSPS stated Peloton’s treadmills are designed differently than other, more traditional treadmills, with “an unusual belt design that uses individual rigid rubberized slats or treads that are interlocked and ride on a rail.” That’s instead of a thinner, continuous belt. There is also a large gap between the floor and the belt of the Tread+, leaving room for a child, a pet, or an object, such as an exercise ball to wiggle their way under, which can lead to being sucked under the 450+ pound machine.

The recall comes after the CPSC, in April, took the unusual step of warning consumers with small children or pets at home to immediately stop using the Peloton Tread+. The company initially refused to recall its $4,300 exercise machine, stating that the product was safe as long as users followed operating instructions, which was clearly not the case as the majority of reported injuries were a result of using the treadmill in the proper manner.

So, what now?

According to CSPS:

  • Stop using the Peloton Tread+ if there are small children or pets at home. Incidents suggest that children may be seriously injured while the Tread+ is being used by an adult, not just when a child has unsupervised access to the machine.
  • If consumers must continue to use the product, CPSC urges consumers to use the product only in a locked room, to prevent access to children and pets while the treadmill is in use. Keep all objects, including exercise balls and other equipment, away from the treadmill.
  • When not in use, unplug the Tread+ and store the safety key away from the device and out of reach of children.
  • Report any Peloton Tread+ incidents to CPSC at www.SaferProducts.gov or to CPSC’s Hotline at 800-638-2772.
  • Consumers who own the Peloton Tread should immediately stop using the product and contact Peloton for a full refund. For consumers who do not want a refund, Peloton is offering the option of waiting for a free inspection and repair that will secure the touch screen to the treadmill to help prevent future incidents.
Peter Olszewski
Peter Olszewski

Peter Paul Olszewski, Jr., a shareholder and managing partner at Scartelli Olszewski, P.C., brings 37 years of litigation experience. He is a renowned trial lawyer in Pennsylvania, specializing in medical malpractice, personal injury, and criminal defense. Peter's notable achievements include securing multi-million-dollar verdicts and serving as District Attorney and Judge. He is committed to community involvement and is actively engaged in various legal associations.
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