/>iWhen we buy a product, whether it is a car, a power tool, or a child’s toy, we expect it to be safe. However, defective products sometimes make their way into our homes and cause serious injuries. When that happens, the company that made or sold the product may be legally responsible.
Here is what you need to know if a defective product has injured you or someone you love.
Common Ways Products Cause Injuries
Defective products can be dangerous. Faulty airbags, unsafe power tools, and appliances with fire risks are common examples. Children's toys with choking hazards or toxic materials, and medical devices that break or fail inside the body, can also lead to serious harm.
These injuries are often preventable, which is why product liability laws exist to hold manufacturers accountable when safety fails.
Main Types of Product Defects
Defective products generally fall into one of three categories:
- Design Defect: The product is inherently dangerous because of how it was designed, even if made correctly.
- Manufacturing Defect: The design is safe, but something went wrong during production, such as using weak materials or missing parts.
- Marketing Defect (Failure to Warn): The product lacks proper warnings or instructions that could have prevented injury.
What It Means to Hold a Manufacturer Accountable
If a defective product causes injury, the victim may be entitled to compensation. This can include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care. These claims also help push companies to fix dangerous products and prevent future harm.
What to Do If You Are Injured by a Defective Product
Taking the right steps early is important:
- Get medical attention right away.
- Save the product and any packaging or instructions.
- Document your injuries and how the incident occurred.
- Do not throw anything away; even broken parts can be important evidence.
- Speak with an experienced lawyer who handles product liability cases.
Why It Matters
Manufacturers are required to make safe products. When they do not fulfill this duty and people get hurt, they should be held responsible. It is not just about compensation; it is about protecting others from the same danger.
