What Consumers Need to Know About the Dangerous Safety Bar Defect and Legal Options for Those Injured

Over 300,000 Cosco 2-Step Kitchen Steppers have been recalled in the United States due to a serious product defect that can result in falls, head injuries, and other significant harm. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced the recall on July 31, 2025, after receiving dozens of consumer complaints about the safety bar detaching or breaking during use. Dorel Home Furnishings, the company behind the Cosco brand, confirmed 34 such incidents, including two head injuries. This product was widely sold at major national retailers like Walmart, Target, Lowe’s, and online platforms such as Amazon, Wayfair, and Overstock from February 2021 through July 2025.

Product Details and the Defective Safety Bar Mechanism

The recalled product is known as the Cosco 2-Step Kitchen Stepper. It is a folding stepstool featuring two steps and a safety bar, available in white/gray, green, navy, and blue. The affected model numbers include: 11349WHG1E, 11349GRN1E, 11349NVY1E, 11349WHG2, 11349GRN4, 11349GRN12, 11349WHG12C, 11349WHG12W, 11349WHG4F, and 11349CBWH4T.

The safety hazard stems from a design flaw in the safety bar, which can detach or break under pressure. This creates an unexpected instability for users, often leading to sudden falls. This is especially dangerous when users are on the upper step or leaning against the bar for support.

Reported Injuries and Ongoing Risks to Consumers

The CPSC has documented 34 cases where the safety bar failed, and at least two individuals have sustained head injuries. While the company is offering a repair kit with a sliding locking mechanism to fix the problem, it does not reverse the damage already done to unsuspecting users who were injured before the recall. Many of the recalled units are still likely in circulation in homes across the country.

The defect is particularly hazardous for older adults, individuals with mobility concerns, or anyone using the stepper to reach elevated kitchen cabinets or shelving. If the safety bar detaches mid-use, the user can be thrown off balance without warning, resulting in injuries ranging from broken bones and lacerations to traumatic brain injuries.

Legal Rights for Those Injured by the Defective Kitchen Stepper

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury while using a Cosco 2-Step Kitchen Stepper, you may have grounds for a product liability claim. Under product liability law, manufacturers have a legal duty to ensure their products are reasonably safe when used as intended. When a company sells a defective product that causes harm, injured consumers may seek compensation for:

  • Medical bills and future medical expenses
  • Lost income or diminished earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Disability or disfigurement
  • Emotional trauma and psychological distress

Even if the product has been recalled, injured users can still pursue compensation. The recall itself may serve as evidence of the manufacturer’s knowledge of the defect.

Next Steps for Injured Consumers

If you believe you were hurt by a recalled Cosco stepper, begin by preserving the product and documenting all aspects of the incident. Take photos of the defective unit, injuries, and your environment at the time of the fall. Seek immediate medical attention and retain all records of treatment.

It is also critical to consult with a personal injury attorney who handles product liability cases. Legal guidance can help you determine whether you have a viable claim and how best to proceed. A lawsuit may not only secure the compensation you deserve but also help protect others from similar harm by increasing corporate accountability.

Stepper Fall Injury Lawsuit FAQs

  • Can I sue if I wasn’t seriously injured but still fell? Yes, you can still file a claim even if your injuries were moderate or temporary. The legal system recognizes the physical and emotional consequences of a preventable accident.
  • Do I have to return the product to file a lawsuit? No, but it’s best to retain the product, if possible, as evidence. Photos, packaging, and proof of purchase can also support your claim.
  • What if I bought the product second-hand? You may still have legal options. Product liability cases often depend on whether the product was defective and caused harm, not on how it was purchased.
  • How long do I have to file a claim? This depends on your state’s statute of limitations, but typically you have 2 to 3 years from the date of injury. It’s best to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to avoid missing your window to file.
  • Do I need a lawyer, or can I file the claim myself? Product liability lawsuits can be complex, involving technical evidence and corporate defense teams. Having an experienced attorney greatly increases your chances of success and may lead to a larger settlement.

Contact Parker Waichman LLP For A Free Case Review

If you or a loved one suffered a fall or injury due to a recalled Cosco 2-Step Kitchen Stepper, you may be entitled to compensation. Parker Waichman LLP is a national personal injury law firm with experience handling defective product cases.

Call 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) now for a free consultation and let us help you take the next steps toward justice and recovery. Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our nationwide product injury law firm is ready to assist you.

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