Posted 5.19.2011 by Karla Rivera
The Center for America has created the Wacky Warning Labels contest in an effort to stem frivolous warning labels and lawsuits, which are rare outside the U.S.
According to contest creator, Bob Dorigo Jones, most other countries refuse to recognize lawsuits for warning labels, such as those that appear on ballpoint pen packages in the U.S., which warn consumers that if they swallow the cap it can obstruct their breathing, the Associated Press reported. The contest is its 14th year and will choose one winner from five finalists to be announced in June.
"The lawsuit problem is a uniquely American problem," said Jones, the source reported. "People in other countries do not sue when they cause an injury to themselves because their systems don't allow it."
Other warning labels that may win the title as "wackiest" include a dust mask informing consumers that it "does not supply oxygen," and a leather handgun holster that could resemble a PDA stating, "For gun only, not a functional day planner."