Recall Issued for Popular Peloton Treadmills After 72 Reported Incidents and the Death of a Child

This week, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and Peloton announced two separate recalls of Peloton’s Tread+ and Tread treadmills after 72 incidents were attributed to the popular exercise machine, including the death of a 6-year-old child.

In less than a year since its launch, the Peloton Tread+ has received several dozen reports of adult users, children, pets, and objects being pulled under the rear of the machine with 29 reports of injuries to children, such as second-and third-degree abrasions, broken bones, and lacerations. 

The treadmill’s innovative belt design uses a series of rigid rubberized slates that are interlocked and ride on a ball-bearing system, separating itself from its competitors that operate on a continuous-belt design. Although the technology has been found to be flawed, as the design leaves a few inches gap between the moving belt and the floor below it. That is where the primary hazard lies because limbs or objects can become latched in the gap and pulled.

The recall comes after weeks of controversy. In mid-April, the CPCS said it had become aware of more than three dozen serious accidents. In light of this, the US government agency issued an “urgent warning” urging customers with small children and pets to stop using the Tread+ immediately. Despite numerous reports – and some disturbing videos – circulating, Peloton slammed the CPSC warning in a statement, calling it “inaccurate and misleading”.

Nearly three weeks later, Peloton issued a voluntary recall of more than 125,000 treadmills and paused all sales of the equipment. Both Peloton Tread and Tread+ were recalled, but for different reasons. According to the CPSC, the smaller Tread poses the hazard of its touchscreen potentially detaching and falling. The concerns about the Tread+ are much greater, resulting in the death of a child and over 70 reported incidents.

As Peloton works to address the dangers of their machines, the CPCS is advising consumers to immediately stop using the recalled treadmills and contact Peloton for a full refund.

Meyers & Flowers is a nationally recognized product liability law firm, having awarded billions to victims of defective devices. If you or your child were harmed by a Peloton treadmill, you could be eligible to file a lawsuit to seek financial compensation for your injuries. Our team of experienced product liability attorneys are prepared to take on cases in all 50 states to hold Peloton accountable for their defective treadmill.

Contact our attorneys to explore your legal options at (630) 232-6333, [email protected], or request a free case evaluation.