JPML Creates MDL Docket for Bair Hugger Forced Air Warming Unit Cases in Minnesota

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation has transferred all cases alleging injuries caused by Bair Hugger Forced Air Warming units or blankets to Minnesota federal court for coordinated or consolidated pretrial proceedings.

In a Dec. 11 order, the panel explained that the actions involve common questions of fact and centralization will serve the convenience of the parties and witnesses and promote the just and efficient conduct of the litigation.

The order was issued in response to plaintiff William Lichlyter’s Aug. 21 motion for centralization. Lichlyter asserted that pretrial centralization of the approximately 14 cases brought against 3M …