Product Liability Claims

Manufacturers have a duty to put safe products into the marketplace — defective products that cause harm create legal liability.

Product liability law holds manufacturers, distributors, and retailers responsible for injuries caused by defective or unreasonably dangerous products. These claims can arise from three types of defects: design defects, where the product's entire design is inherently unsafe; manufacturing defects, where a flaw in the production process makes a specific product dangerous; and marketing defects (failure to warn), where inadequate instructions or safety warnings lead to injury. Product liability cases cover an enormous range of consumer goods — automobiles with faulty brakes, medications with undisclosed side effects, children's toys with choking hazards, industrial equipment lacking safety guards, and contaminated food products. Unlike ordinary negligence claims, product liability often applies strict liability, meaning a plaintiff need not prove the manufacturer was careless — only that the product was defective and that the defect caused the injury. This can significantly lower the evidentiary burden for victims. Damages can include medical expenses, lost income, future care costs, and pain and suffering. In cases where the manufacturer showed reckless disregard for consumer safety, punitive damages may also be available. These cases often involve complex technical evidence and require expert witnesses in engineering, medicine, or safety standards. Class action lawsuits are common when a single defect affects many consumers.

For informational purposes only. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney.