Defective consumer products cause many injuries and deaths on an annual basis. According to statistics, millions of people suffer a product-related injury each year and a large number of these injuries are caused by a defect in the manufacture or design of the product. When it comes to such cases, victims have the right to file a claim and pursue compensation. If you are thinking about filing a claim or lawsuit, it is important to learn about product liability law, category of such claims, expected compensation, and more.
What Exactly is Product Liability?
Product liability refers to a doctrine that protects the rights of consumers by holding retailers, manufacturers, etc. responsible for their products’ safety. Generally, businesses are responsible for manufacturing and designing products to be as safe as possible for consumer use. Product liability protects consumers who purchase defective products and get injured. In this way, it helps ensure that liable companies are held responsible and the victims are compensated.
Categories of Product Liability Claims
There are three main types/categories of these claims. These include the following:
- Manufacturing Defect: It happens during the product’s production process.
- Design Defect: It occurs during the testing or pre-production design phase of the product.
- Instructional or Warning Defect: It can occur at any time during the life cycle of the product.
Expected Compensation
If you have been injured by a defective product, you can expect to receive the following compensation at the end of a successful product liability claim:
- Lost wages
- Present and future medical costs
- Reduced earning capacity
- Physical and emotional suffering and pain
- Loss of companionship
In certain situations, punitive damages are also awarded.
What to Do When You Are Injured By a Defective Product
If you are injured by a defective product, it is highly recommended that you seek immediate medical attention. Next, document the condition of the product and the circumstances of the injury. If you are at a public place, talk to the witnesses and write down their contact information. Don’t forget to document the purchase location and the scene of accident by taking photos and/or capturing videos. Retain all evidence, including the defective product.
It is also recommended that you keep a detailed record of any costs that occur due to your injury, e.g. medical costs, transportation expenses, lost wages from time off work, etc. If possible, don’t talk about your case to anyone. Finally, hire the help of a reputed product liability attorney before you make any statements.
Hilton & Somer, LLC: Virginia, Maryland & D.C. Product Liability Attorneys
Product liability cases are relatively more complex as compared to standard personal injury lawsuits. That’s why you should consult with an expert product liability attorney for guidance. At Hilton & Somer, LLC, our product liability lawyers have years of experience pursuing such claims. We will evaluate your case and provide the necessary legal guidance as well as ensure that you get maximum compensation. Get in touch with us by dialing 703-560-0700 or using our online contact form. We offer free initial consultations.
References
https://www.iii.org/fact-statistic/facts-statistics-product-liability
https://casetext.com/analysis/six-important-facts-you-need-to-know-about-product-liability-lawsuits
