New research has found that teen nicotine use has doubled since 2017. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 37.3% of 12th graders, 32.3% of 10th graders, and17.6% of eight graders report having used a vape pen. Sadly, many studies have found that a number of teens who explore vaping will eventually move onto smoking traditional cigarettes, though the National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that marijuana is more popular among teens than traditional cigarettes. Interestingly, when it comes to vape pens and teens, a majority of the use is for nicotine.
Nicotine is an incredibly addictive drug. Depending on the device used, e-cig liquid can contain high concentrations of nicotine - as much as 20 cigarettes-worth in a single cartridge. This increases the risk of addiction significantly. With this knowledge, companies like JUUL are alleged to have intentionally marketed to teens with the hopes of hooking a new generation of nicotine users.
The NIH reports that over half of all teens have been exposed to e-cig ads from various mediums including retail stores, the internet, television and movies, and newspapers and magazines. If your teen was targeted by marketers and has since developed a nicotine addiction or a vaping illness, your family may be entitled to take legal action.
Class Action Lawsuit Against JUUL
There is currently a class-action lawsuit alleging JUUL illegally marketed products containing nicotine to teens. According to the suit, JUUL used online and social media to target teens with advertisements for fruit and candy-flavored vape juice. According to Dr. Robert Jackler, a Stanford professor who studies tobacco advertising, direct marketing to teens was no mistake. JUUL and similar companies intentionally and aggressively pursued young customers.
More Than Addiction
Teen nicotine addiction is a serious issue that deserves to be addressed, but teens who get hooked on e-cigarettes are at risk for more than just a lifetime addiction. A number of e-cig injuries, from exploding batteries to lung illness, are possible when the habit is taken up. The more frequent the use of a vape pen, the higher the risk for serious or even fatal injury.
Do You Need a Lawyer?
If you or your teen has suffered a vaping illness or if your teen was illegally marketed to and has since developed an addiction, you may be entitled to take legal action and seek compensation for things like addiction services, medical care, and personal pain and suffering. The best way to learn if taking legal action is an option in your case is through a one-on-one evaluation at the Chattanooga office of Herbert Thornbury. Taking time to listen to your concerns and fully evaluate your situation, Mr. Thornbury can help you determine the best course of action.
Please call 423-752-0544 today to schedule your complimentary consultation with Herbert Thornbury, Attorney at Law. Mr. Thornbury is an award-winning and highly respected lawyer serving Chattanooga and surrounded areas of Tennessee.
