When you purchase a product, you expect it to work according to the instructions. You do not expect it to harm you in any way.
Unfortunately, defective products can pose serious risks to consumers. According to the Legal Information Institute, all parties in the chain of manufacturing may be liable for injuries caused by a product.
Understanding product liability
A product liability claim may have a foundation in strict liability or negligence. Generally, product liability classifies as a strict liability offense. If the plaintiff can prove a defective product, then the court can rule the defendant liable. It does not matter what the company’s intent for the product is.
There are three different defects that manufacturers or suppliers may be liable for. These defects include:
- Marketing
- Manufacturing
- Design
Marketing defects occur when the company does not include proper instructions or does not warn the consumer of any known dangers with the product. Manufacturing defects, on the other hand, refer to any defects that occur while in the manufacturing process. Design defects occur before manufacturing. Sometimes, a design can be dangerous before manufacture.
Obtaining justice for defective products
Product defects can cause severe injuries. When a company releases a product, its risk of harm cannot outweigh its utility. Reasonable consumers cannot find the product defective when they use it with common sense.
The purpose of class action lawsuits in response to defective products is to hold the company accountable for harm. Products such as automobiles, baby furniture, electronics or power tools can cause serious injury if defective. After a class action lawsuit, not only do you receive compensation but it protects future consumers from the same risks.
