Defective and dangerous products cause a lot of harm. They injure Americans every year, and sometimes those injuries are fatal. The term “product liability” refers to the liability of a manufacturer, seller or other party for allowing a defective product to get onto the market and into the hands of consumers. An experienced product liability lawyer investigates your case and pursues compensation on your behalf.
Examples of Product Liability Cases
Any type of consumer product could be the cause of an injury. The question is whether a defect caused the injury.
In the past, product liability cases have included certain types of:
- Smoke detectors
- Carbon monoxide detectors
- Tires
- Brakes
- Steering wheels
- Airbags
- Children’s toys
- Recreational equipment
- Gym equipment
- Tools
- Construction equipment
- Ladders
- Handrails
- Medical devices
- Pharmaceutical drugs
- Kitchen appliances
Although certain products are inherently dangerous – a chain saw, for example – they still must meet the ordinary expectations of the consumer. You purchase a chainsaw knowing it’s dangerous and knowing you should acquaint yourself with the instructions before using it. But a hidden and unexpected defect is not within the ordinary expectations of a consumer, such as a tire wall designed to be so thin that blowouts are highly likely.
Types of Defects in Product Liability Claims
A product can be defective in a few ways:
- Designed defectively
- Manufactured defectively
- Inadequate warnings and labeling
It takes an experienced, knowledgeable lawyer to track down the source of the product defect in your situation. The defect may have arisen at the time of the product’s design, and is therefore baked into the product itself. A defect may also arise when a product is being manufactured or assembled. Under those circumstances, the defect could affect an entire lot of the product. Inadequate warnings and labels mean the consumer did not have the information they needed in order to use the product safely, or that they were not properly warned about the dangers and risks of using the device or product.
Fault in Product Liability Cases
Who is ultimately responsible for your injuries? When it comes to dangerous and defective products, fault could lie anywhere in the chain of distribution:
- Manufacturers
- Designers
- Retailers
- Suppliers
- Distributors
- Defective product cases often involve large corporations with powerful insurance companies backing them. You need an equally knowledgeable and aggressive lawyer on your side – a lawyer who does not back down to powerful opponents.
Why Consider a Lawsuit?
If you were recently injured by a defective and dangerous device, you may be wondering whether to pursue a claim. Trying to handle the situation on your own may seem easier, but you could miss out on the opportunity to maximize your injury compensation. Oftentimes the insurance company will take your lawyer more seriously than you filing a claim on your own.
Here are a few reasons to consider filing a product liability claim:
- Compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
- Accountability for the company responsible
- Justice for you and your family
When it comes down to it, each case is unique. It’s impossible to say whether it’s a good idea for you to pursue a lawsuit without first meeting with you to discuss your case.
Arrange a Consultation Today
By speaking with an experienced product liability lawyer, you get all the information you need in order to decide what to do next. Talking to a lawyer takes the fear and uncertainty out of the decision because you will be armed with clear, honest answers about your options. Find out if you have a case by consulting a skilled, experienced attorney.
