Product Liability Attorney Overview
Lawyer Representation in Cases Involving Injuries From Dangerous or Defective Products
When you purchase a product, you expect it to be safe to use without causing harm to you or your family. However, thousands of people are harmed every year because of defective or dangerous products. People injured because of the negligence of a product designer, manufacturer, or retailer may be able to receive compensation for their injuries through a product liability lawsuit or claim.
If you have been injured by a defective product, an experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your options for recovering damages. A skilled lawyer can identify liable parties, demonstrate that their negligence led to your injuries, and help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
Types of Product Liability Cases
While each state has its own laws regarding the procedures consumers must follow when seeking compensation for injuries from defective products, product liability cases generally fall into one of three categories:
- Design defects - If an inherent flaw in the design of a product resulted in the product being unsafe, the designer of the product may be held liable for injuries that occur as a result.
- Manufacturing defects - If improper procedures are followed during a product's manufacturing process, the product may become dangerous. Examples of manufacturing defects include incorrect materials being used when making auto parts or food products becoming contaminated during packaging.
- Improper warnings or instructions - If a manufacturer or retailer fails to provide proper instructions regarding the safe use of the product, or if they fail to provide warnings about potential dangerous uses, they may be held liable for injuries caused when the product is used.
Examples of Defective Product Injuries
There are a wide variety of circumstances in which dangerous products can result in injuries, including:
- Dangerous drugs - Injuries often occur due to unexpected side effects of prescription or over the counter medications, or because a manufacturer did not provide proper instructions about the use of these drugs.
- Defective auto parts - Injuries can occur in car accidents because of defective tires, brakes, airbags, seat belts, engine parts, or other systems.
- Dangerous toys or playground equipment - Children can suffer serious injuries when using defective products, including choking on small parts or experiencing broken bones or brain injuries due to broken or defective equipment on playgrounds.
- Food poisoning - People can contract serious illnesses after eating food that has become contaminated by diseases or toxic chemicals. Some common foodborne illnesses include salmonella, E. coli, norovirus, and botulism.
- Electrical defects - Home appliances or other devices that experience electrical failure can catch fire, causing extensive property damage and serious injuries. People may also suffer electrocution injuries if wires are exposed or are not connected properly.
- Toxic materials - Products which contain materials such as asbestos or lead can cause long-lasting harm to those who are exposed to them.
If you have been injured after using a dangerous product, it is crucial to work with a skilled attorney who understands the best steps to take to pursue compensation through a product liability lawsuit. A lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected, work with experts show that the harm that was caused by the normal, expected use of the product, demonstrate the full extent of your injuries, and help you receive compensation for the damages that you have suffered.
