Who is Liable for a Defective Product?
July 13, 2023 in Product Liability
When you buy a product off a store shelf, you expect it to be safe and work as intended. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Defective products make it to market every day and can sadly cause injuries, property damage, and financial loss.
Below, the experienced personal injury attorneys at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. discuss who may be liable for product defects and how a product liability attorney can help you hold them accountable when a product goes wrong.
What is a Defective Product?
A defective product is any consumer product that makes it to market and contains a flaw that leads to injury or death. Some of the most common products involved in liability lawsuits in the U.S. are auto parts, children’s toys, medical devices, household appliances, cosmetics, and foods.
When defective products are unleashed on unsuspecting consumers, thousands of lives are at risk, and the consequences can be fatal. Some consumers, such as the victims of defective seatbelts and airbags in auto accidents, suffer permanent injuries or even death because of the lapse in judgment of a manufacturing company. No matter what types of product-related injuries you or a loved one suffered, it is vital to speak to a product liability lawyer who may be able to use your state’s product liability laws in your favor.
Product liability lawyers are legal professionals who specialize in handling cases related to defective products. Their main goal is to protect the rights of consumers like you and ensure that those responsible for producing or selling faulty products are held accountable.
If you live in New York and have experienced harm due to a defective product, design defect, or product defect, it’s crucial to seek the assistance of a product liability attorney in New York. These attorneys deeply understand state-specific laws and regulations, making them well-equipped to handle your case effectively.
Understanding Product Liability
Product liability refers to the legal responsibility of manufacturers, distributors, and sellers for any injuries or damages caused by their defective products. In other words, if you suffer harm due to a faulty product, you can seek compensation from the responsible parties.
To establish a product liability claim, certain key elements need to be proven:
- Defective Product: There must be a defect in the product that makes it unreasonably dangerous when used as intended. This defect can occur during the manufacturing, design, or labeling process.
- Injury or Damage: You must have suffered some form of harm, whether it’s physical injury, property damage, or financial loss, due to using the defective product.
- Causal Relationship: You need to establish a direct link between the defect in the product and the harm you have suffered. In other words, the defect must cause your injuries or damages.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Defective Product?
Several parties may be held accountable for the defective product. The most common target of product liability cases is the manufacturer of the defective item, usually the company responsible for designing, producing, and assembling the product. The manufacturer can be liable for harm, whether it’s a design or manufacturing defect.
The distributor or wholesaler can also be held accountable if the defective product passes through before reaching the consumer, especially if they knew of the defect but failed to take appropriate action.
Finally, a product liability case may target a retailer or seller. Even if the retailer or seller did not manufacture the product, they still must ensure that the products they sell are safe for consumer use.
Additional parties, such as designers, engineers, or component manufacturers, may also share liability in some instances when the defect results from a flaw in the product’s design or a specific component.
Do I Need a Product Liability Attorney?
Working with a product liability attorney is crucial when dealing with the complexities of product liability law, particularly in cases involving injuries or damages. These legal professionals have the knowledge, experience, and resources to handle your case effectively.
Product liability attorneys can access a network of experts who provide valuable guidance. These experts possess specialized knowledge of your case and can offer insights and opinions to strengthen your claim, ultimately increasing your chances of a successful outcome.
An experienced product liability attorney, like the ones at SPBMCC, will work tirelessly to help you obtain the maximum compensation you may be entitled to for the injuries, damages, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering you have endured.
When a defective product causes harm, it’s essential to understand who can be held accountable. Product liability lawyers, such as a product liability attorney in New York, can guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights.
You can seek compensation for the injuries or damages you’ve suffered due to a defective product. Don’t hesitate to contact a qualified product liability attorney who can help you navigate this complex area of the law and seek the justice you may be entitled to.
Contact the Experienced NYC Product Liability Lawyers at SPBMCC to Seek Justice Today
Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. is a reputable full-service personal injury law firm specializing in various areas, including product liability. Our dedicated litigation support teams are committed to vigorously representing clients in matters such as 9/11-related illnesses, personal injury, car accidents, construction accidents, medical malpractice, premises liability, medical malpractice, and firefighter law across New York City, Long Island, Nassau, Suffolk counties, and New Jersey. Contact us today to learn more about our firm or schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.