Migliaccio & Rathod LLP is investigating whether Invacare improperly restricts access to the parts, software, firmware, documentation, and diagnostic tools needed to repair powered wheelchairs and complex rehabilitation equipment.
What Consumers Report
Wheelchair users and repair professionals report:
- Difficulty obtaining complete technical documentation.
- Being unable to complete electronic diagnostics without manufacturer-controlled tools.
- Replacement components requiring authorized setup or programming.
- Long delays obtaining repairs through approved service providers.
- Limited access to qualified technicians.
- Paying significant charges for service calls or electronic adjustments.
- Being unable to use a preferred independent repair company.
- Experiencing extended loss of mobility while waiting for repairs.
Why Consumers Should Be Concerned
A powered wheelchair may be essential for mobility, pressure relief, personal care, and access to the community. When the manufacturer restricts repair information or electronic service functions, users may be unable to restore a chair even where a local technician is capable of replacing the failed component.
Extended downtime can create medical risks and substantial personal and financial harm. Invacare consumers may also have paid for equipment without being told that future repairs could depend on a narrow authorized-service network.
Potential Claims May Include
- Unfair and deceptive trade practices
- Consumer protection violations
- State right-to-repair claims
- Failure to disclose material repair limitations
- Breach of express warranty
- Breach of implied warranty
- Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act violations
- Repair-service tying
- Unjust enrichment
- Disability-rights claims where appropriate
Signs You May Be Affected
You may be affected if:
- You use an Invacare powered wheelchair.
- Your wheelchair remained unusable while waiting for authorized repair.
- A local repair provider lacked necessary software, parts, or service information.
- A replacement controller or electronic part required manufacturer authorization.
- You incurred unreimbursed expenses because of the delay.
- You had to use a manual chair, rental chair, or remain at home.
- Repair delays affected your health, work, school, or independence.
If you have encountered these issues, we would like to hear from you. Please complete the contact form on this page, send us an email at [email protected], or give us a call at (202) 470-3520.