Overview of Product Liability

When products cause injury, disfigurement, illness or death, the victim or the victim's family may be eligible for a product liability claim. A product liability claim holds those who have a hand in producing and/or distributing a dangerous or defective product financially responsible for their negligence.

While it may seem a bit daunting to take on a giant corporation or multi-national company in a lawsuit, it can be done with success in cases where negligence can be shown. A recent example of product liability claims would include the massive Toyota recall that took place earlier this year. Numerous parties who were seriously injured or lost loved ones in auto crashes that were caused by Toyota's unintended acceleration issues have filed claims against the auto manufacturer as a result of its defective product.

Who is responsible in a product liability claim?

According to Cornell University Law School's resource center, "a uniform code governing commercial transactions (has) been adopted in some form by every state as well as by the District of Columbia." Each state, including New Jersey and Pennsylvania, have their own specific uniform laws governing manufacturer liability. A Philadelphia product liability lawyer will have intimate knowledge of the local, state and national laws and how they apply to your case. 

The sale and lease of products, and some services, fall under a uniform code, which provides rules about the duty of manufacturers to ensure they produce and sell safe products. Those who may be held liable for an unsafe or defective product include:

• The manufacturer of any of the parts;
• The company that assembled the defective product;
• A wholesaler or distributor; and
• The retailer who sold the defective product.

The 3 basic areas where negligence and fault come into play in a product liability claim are:

• Defect in design;
• Defect in manufacture; and
• Defect in marketing.

Compensation in a Product Liability Claim

If you have been seriously injured or lost a loved one because of a defective product and you are interested in filing a product liability claim, you may be eligible for damages that include:

• Medical expenses (past, present and future);
• Pain and suffering;
• Lost wages;
• Punitive damages (in cases of extreme negligence); and
• Other types of compensation.

What a Philadelphia Product Liability Lawyer Will Do

Product liability claims are very complicated. They will typically involve more than one defendant and often span across state lines, if not internationally. A Philadelphia product liability lawyer will conduct a complete investigation of your claim in order to determine every liable party involved. They will secure expert witnesses in order to build a strong case that fully details the way in which someone else's negligence caused your injuries.

You shouldn't have to suffer and pay for expensive medical bills that were caused by another person or company's negligence. Contact a Philadelphia product liability lawyer at White & Williams LLP today. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case. 1-877-944-8396.