Every day, consumers trust that the products they use, from vehicles and appliances to medications, are safe. When a product fails and causes injury, the consequences can be severe. Product liability law exists to hold manufacturers, distributors, and retailers accountable when defective products harm consumers.
Types of Product Defects
There are three main types of product defects that may lead to a liability claim:
- Design Defects: Flaws in the product’s design make it inherently dangerous (e.g., unstable furniture or poorly designed airbags).
- Manufacturing Defects: Errors during production cause certain batches of an otherwise safe product to become unsafe.
- Failure to Warn: Inadequate labeling or missing safety instructions fail to inform users about potential risks.
Who Can Be Held Liable
Liability may extend beyond the manufacturer to include:
- Wholesalers and distributors
- Retailers or sellers
- Component part suppliers
In some cases, multiple parties may share responsibility for your injuries.
What to Do If You’ve Been Injured
If you believe a defective product caused your injury:
- Preserve the product and packaging as evidence.
- Keep medical records and proof of purchase.
- Contact an attorney before communicating with insurance companies or the manufacturer.
The product liability attorneys at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. have the resources and experience to investigate complex product defect cases and fight for the compensation victims deserve.