JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers | July 7, 2025 | Product Liability
When we buy a product, we expect it to work properly and keep us safe. However, some products cause serious injuries because of poor design, production errors, or missing warnings. This is where product liability law comes into play.
Product liability means a company or seller can be held legally responsible if a dangerous product injures someone. Understanding your rights and how to file a claim can help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Types of Product Defects
There are three main types of product defects:
- Design defects: Flaws in the product’s blueprint that make it unsafe even when made correctly
- Manufacturing defects: Problems that happen during production, causing individual items to be dangerous
- Marketing defects: Missing or unclear instructions and warnings that fail to inform users of risks
Understanding these types of defects is essential when determining who may be liable for injuries caused by a dangerous or defective product.
Proving a Product Liability Claim
To win a claim, you need to show:
- The product had a defect
- The defect directly caused your injury
- You used the product as intended or in a reasonable way
Evidence such as photos, medical reports, receipts, and expert testimony is important. Keeping the damaged product and any packaging can also support your claim. Witness statements add valuable details and help confirm what happened.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Several parties might share responsibility, including:
- The manufacturer
- Suppliers of parts or materials
- Retailers and distributors
Identifying all potentially liable parties is crucial to ensuring you pursue the full compensation you’re entitled to under product liability law.
Compensation You May Recover
In a product liability case, compensation can cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and future earnings
- Pain and emotional suffering
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation costs
Compensation can also include money for long-term care if injuries are severe. Understanding all possible damages ensures you don’t miss out on important financial recovery.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
Every state has a legal deadline known as the statute of limitations. It typically ranges from one to three years after the injury occurs. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to seek compensation.
Why Work With a Lawyer?
Product liability cases involve complicated legal rules and detailed evidence.
A lawyer can:
- Analyze your case and identify all responsible parties
- Collect strong evidence to prove your claim
- Handle talks with large companies and insurance carriers
- Represent you confidently in court if negotiations fail
Lawyers understand the strategies used by large companies and can fight for the compensation you deserve.
What to Do After an Injury
Seek medical attention immediately. Preserve the product and any packaging as they are vital pieces of evidence. Take detailed photos of your injuries and the scene where the incident occurred. Write down everything you remember while it’s fresh in your mind.
Acting promptly helps secure your rights and supports a stronger case. Save all receipts, bills, and documents related to the product and your treatment. Detailed records strengthen your case and make it easier to prove your damages.
Staying Safe in the Future
While you cannot prevent every accident, being cautious helps reduce risks. Research products, read safety instructions carefully, and check for recalls before use. Stop using any product that seems dangerous and report it to the authorities if needed.
Contact the Encino Product Liability Lawyers of JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you have been hurt by a defective product, understanding product liability and how to pursue a claim is essential. Filing a claim helps you recover financially and encourages companies to create safer products. Taking legal action also prevents future injuries by holding manufacturers accountable.
Please contact an experienced product liability lawyer at JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers for a free initial consultation today at (833) 852-3600.
Our main office is in Encino, CA, but we serve all through Los Angeles County.
JUSTICENTER Personal Injury Lawyers
16633 Ventura Blvd suite 1011,
Encino, CA 91436
