The solar eclipse that crossed the US in August 2017 was big business for a lot of different people: the hotels and restaurants in the cities it passed by, the airlines and rental car companies getting people to the prime viewing spots and of course anyone selling eclipse viewing glasses. Included in that last category is Amazon.com. And now they are being included in a class action personal injury lawsuit for selling bogus glasses that ended up causing major eye damage to at least two individuals.

ARS Technica reports that a South Carolina couple that purchased and used their eclipse glasses are now dealing with “blurriness, a central blind spot, increased sensitivity, changes in perception of color and distorted vision.” While Amazon did send out an email on August 19 notifying those buyers of the glasses that they had not been approved, the couple allege that the email as “too little too late” as they were already en route to view the eclipse and not checking their emails.

In addition to financial damages for their injuries and disabilities, the class action suit is also seeking punitive damages against the online retail giant.

Product liability claims can typically hold (or attempt to hold) every party that played a role in the injury financially responsible. Each party is responsible for their role (a percentage) in causing the injuries or death. In this instance, Amazon did not make the glasses but they did sell them. Curiously enough, this suit did not go after the glasses manufacturer, only Amazon– a  move that is likely financially motivated because if responsible Amazon can certainly pay out a large verdict. What role the email will play in the legal analysis is yet to be seen. Injuries from defective products are far too common. If you have been injured because of a defective product, do not hesitate to get in touch with us immediately. You should not have to bear the financial burden that comes with your injuries, missed work and ongoing medical needs– a personal injury lawsuit can help.