Product Liability / Defective Product Lawsuits - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you or a member of your family has been injured by a defective product, you may be able to recover monetary compensation for your injuries. In this article we are providing you with the answers you need to some of the most frequently asked questions about product liability lawsuits.
What is a product liability lawsuit?
Product liability / defective product lawsuits are filed when a product is found to be dangerous to someone and has caused or could cause injury to a person.
What kind of products are part of a product liability lawsuit?
The answer is just about any product. Food products, medications, cars, construction equipment, baby products, and common household items have the potential to cause injury if they are defective in some way.
Who can I hold responsible for an injury due to a defective product?
Depending on the product the manufacturer or distribution chain could be held liable. If the product had a design defect, the people who designed the product could be held liable for your injuries. If the defect is found to be in the way it was made, or if sub-standard materials were used in the production process the manufacturer could be held responsible. In some cases, someone who sold or repaired the product may be found to be responsible for any injuries.
What kind of damages can I recover in a product liability lawsuit?
The damages you may be able to recover depend on your injuries and the state you reside in. Each state has their own laws that govern what damages may be available in a product liability lawsuit, and those laws can vary greatly from state to state. In general, you may be able to receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and loss of earning potential, just to name a few. An experienced product liability attorney in your state will be able to evaluate your individual case and answer this question more fully.
What is the statute of limitations?
A statute of limitations is the time period you have between when your injury occurred and when you can file a claim. The statute of limitations varies greatly from state to state, but it would be wise to contact an attorney as soon as possible after your injury to make sure your claim is filed before the statute of limitations expires in your state.
What is strict liability?
Strict liability is when the manufacturer of the product can be held responsible for the injuries caused by their product, even if they took all safety precautions to prevent you from being injured. The manufacturer does not have to be found guilty of negligence. The only thing you have to prove is that the product caused the injury.