Products Liability

Types of Product Defects:
Products liability claims generally fall into one or more of the following categories:

Design Defects:
A flaw inherent in the product’s design makes it unreasonably dangerous even when manufactured and used correctly. The entire line of products is defective. Example: a top-heavy SUV prone to rollovers.

Manufacturing Defects:
The product was designed safely, but a defect occurred during the production or assembly process, making a particular item (or batch) unsafe. Example: a contaminated batch of medication or a fractured medical implant.

Marketing Defects / Failure to Warn:
The product lacks proper instructions or warnings about risks associated with normal use, or foreseeable misuse. Example: failure to warn that a drug may cause severe side effects or that a tool should not be used near water.

Common Injuries in Products Liability Cases:
→ Burns, electrocution, or fire-related injuries
→ Internal injuries from defective drugs or implants
→ Limb loss or amputation due to faulty machinery
→ Toxic exposure and long-term illness (e.g., cancer from talc or chemical products)
→ Death, often in automotive or pharmaceutical cases
→ Permanent disability, disfigurement, or infertility

Examples of Products Commonly Involved in Liability Cases:
→ Automobiles and Auto Parts: Airbags, seatbelts, brakes, ignition switches, and fuel systems
→ Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices: Prescription drugs, implants, prosthetics, and surgical instruments
→ Household Appliances and Electronics: Heaters, toasters, lithium-ion batteries, electric scooters
→ Children’s Products: Cribs, car seats, toys, clothing with drawstrings
→ Construction Equipment and Tools: Power saws, ladders, scaffolding, safety harnesses
→ Food and Beverage Products: Contaminated food, mislabeling allergens, spoiled or improperly stored products

Products liability is a vital area of law that ensures consumer safety and corporate accountability. Whether the harm stems from a faulty drug, a dangerous vehicle, or a mislabeled food item, products liability actions aim to compensate victims and encourage safer practices across industries. These cases often involve technical complexity, expert testimony, and high-stakes litigation, requiring legal counsel with experience in engineering, medicine, and regulatory compliance. For victims, holding manufacturers accountable can not only provide financial recovery but also help prevent harm to others.