When most people think of personal injuries, car accidents come to mind, but defective products can be just as dangerous. Consumers expect products to function the way companies advertise them. Unfortunately, problems can arise during any one of the many steps in the manufacturing, shipping and resale processes, and defective products can cause debilitating injuries and even death.
What makes a product defective?
The term “defective product” might seem self-explanatory, but the courts require a precise legal definition in cases involving injury and death. There are a variety of ways that a product can be legally defective, including inherent flaws in the product’s design, poor craftsmanship during manufacturing and damage on behalf of the retailer. These are some of the more common descriptions of defective products, but it is important to keep in mind that there are others.
What are the most common defective products?
Though any product in any industry can be defective in some way, there are a number of common products that injure consumers more frequently than others. These include automobiles, boats, motorcycles, power tools, kitchen appliances, cosmetics, food and firearms.
No matter the type of product that injured you or a loved one, you may have a case against the manufacturer or retailer if it caused a serious injury. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, consumers may also receive compensation for defective medical products, as well.
Seeking Justice after a Defective Product Harmed You
If a defective product harmed you when you were using it according to the manufacturer’s specifications, you could have a valid claim against the party responsible. It is important to remember that you have rights and various avenues through which you can pursue compensation.
You may be able to bring a claim against the retailer, supplier, manufacturer or even designer. A personal-injury lawyer can help you identify all liable parties and pursue the maximum compensation.
Rewards for damages from a defective product not only will cover medical bills, but they may also cover the pain and suffering that the injury caused. If you could not return to work as a result of the injury, a successful defective product claim may recover damages for past and future lost wages.
Each personal-injury case is unique, and negotiating for a fair settlement – or finding success in court – often requires extensive evidence. A products liability attorney can help you gather this evidence and structure your claim.