Vaping was supposed to be a safer alternative to smoking. That is how it was sold to millions of people across the country—especially young adults. But when people started landing in the hospital with serious lung damage, and some even lost their lives, it became clear: these products were not as harmless as they seemed. Products associated with vaping are e-cigarettes, vape pens, mods, pod systems, and THC or CBD cartridges.
The outbreak of severe lung illness linked to vaping became known as EVALI, short for E-cigarette or Vaping-Associated Lung Injury. And while health officials scrambled to understand what was happening, families were left facing the unimaginable—life-altering injuries, lost wages, long hospital stays, and tragic deaths.
At the Ogle Law Firm, we work with clients and families in Daytona Beach, Gainesville, and the surrounding areas who have been affected by vaping injuries. If you or someone you love got sick from e-cigarettes or another form of vaping, or if you have lost a loved one because of it, you might have a right to pursue a personal injury or wrongful death claim.
What Exactly Is EVALI?
EVALI is not a single disease. It is a condition where the lungs become inflamed, damaged, and often fail altogether. People who developed EVALI often had symptoms that looked like pneumonia at first—shortness of breath, coughing, chest pain, and fever. But these symptoms would quickly get worse, sometimes putting people in the ICU or on a ventilator within days.
Many of the cases were linked to THC vape products, especially those purchased on the street or online from unregulated sources. Lab tests found that vitamin E acetate, an additive used in some vape liquids, was showing up in the lungs of patients with EVALI. It is not something the lungs are designed to handle.
Even products from well-known e-cigarette brands were not always safe. And most users had no idea what they were really inhaling.
Who’s at Risk?
Most of the EVALI cases were in people under 35. Many were teenagers. A lot of them believed they were using a safer product than smoking cigarettes—something to help them quit smoking or just fit in socially.
Unfortunately, the opposite was true. These devices often contain addictive levels of nicotine, unknown chemicals, and substances that can cause deadly harm.
Can You File a Claim for a Vaping Injury?
If you or a loved one suffered a serious lung injury due to vaping, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim. If someone passed away as a result, a wrongful death claim may be the right step forward.
These types of cases can help cover:
- Emergency room and hospital costs
- Ongoing treatment or rehab
- Lost income during recovery
- Pain and emotional distress
- Funeral costs and more in wrongful death cases
At the Ogle Law Firm, our attorneys understand how overwhelming this can feel. You are dealing with medical problems, financial stress, and maybe even grief. We are here to help you figure out what legal options are available—and what you are entitled to.
Holding Vape Companies Accountable
Vape companies—especially the big ones—pushed their products aggressively. They marketed to young people. They released flavors like mango and cotton candy. They told users their products were safer, without providing long-term studies to support this claim.
Now, many of those same companies are facing lawsuits. And rightfully so.
Families across Florida are taking action. Whether it is Juul or another brand, manufacturers should be held responsible when their products cause harm. That is where our team at the Ogle Law Firm comes in.
We have handled personal injury and wrongful death claims for decades, and we know how to deal with big corporations and their insurance teams. We are not afraid to go up against them—and we do it with compassion for the people we serve.
What If You Lost a Loved One?
There is nothing harder than losing someone you care about—especially when it could have been prevented. If a loved one died because of a vaping-related illness, we may be able to help you file a wrongful death claim.
This type of legal case focuses on helping the surviving family get answers, closure, and compensation for what was lost. This can include funeral expenses, future lost income, loss of companionship, and other related costs.
You do not need to go through this alone. We are here to guide you, every step of the way.
What Should You Do If You Think Vaping Caused Harm?
If you or someone close to you was seriously affected by vaping, here is what we recommend:
- Get Medical Attention – Even if the symptoms feel minor at first, EVALI can worsen fast. Receiving the correct diagnosis and care is crucial—and it documents your condition for any potential legal claim.
- Save the Product – Keep the vape device, cartridge, and packaging if possible. Do not throw it away. It might be important evidence.
- Write Down What Happened – Dates, symptoms, hospital visits, brands used—jot everything down while it is still fresh.
- Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney – Whether you are in Daytona Beach, Gainesville, or the surrounding Florida communities, our team can review your case, address your questions, and explain the next steps.
How Ogle Law Firm Can Help
We have built our reputation by helping people through some of the toughest times in their lives. We take these cases seriously because we understand the stakes involved. This is not just about compensation—it is about accountability.
Our team will:
- Review your case in detail
- Investigate the source and safety of the vaping product
- Consult medical experts
- Handle communication with the other side
- Push for a fair settlement—or go to court if needed
You will never feel like just another case file. We dedicate the time, respect, and personal attention every client deserves.
Florida Law Limits How Long You Have to File
Florida law has time limits, called the statutes of limitations for filing personal injury or wrongful death claims. Waiting too long could mean losing your right to take legal action.
If you are looking for a Gainesville or Daytona Beach personal injury attorney or wrongful death attorney, we encourage you to reach out today. There is no cost to talk. And you only pay us if we win your case. Attorney William Ogle is a national board-certified civil trial specialist, which distinguishes him as an expert in trial tactics, trial procedure, and trial law.
Contact the Ogle Law Firm TodayIf you are dealing with the effects of a vaping injury or if you lost someone to EVALI, you do not have to carry it all on your own. Legal help is available, and it starts with a simple conversation. Call or text the Ogle Law Firm at (386) 253-2500 to schedule a confidential appointment to discuss your options.