When a consumer buys a product, they do so with the expectation that it is safe and will function properly. If a company does not follow the proper production process and guidelines in creating a product, the product may become defective. If a product is defective, malfunctions can happen and a consumer may be put at risk for a serious injury. When injuries occur due to a company’s neglect to produce a proper product, the company may be held responsible for that injury. This is called product liability. If you have been injured as a result of a defective product, it is important to seek legal representation.
What is Product Liability?
Product liability is the obligation a company has to create a product that is safe for consumers to purchase. When they fail to do this, product liability holds them responsible for producing a faulty product. When companies cut corners or make mistakes while producing a product, people may become injured as a result. This can happen with products such as children’s toys, household appliances, or even motor vehicles. If a product can be dangerous if used improperly, companies are required to provide consumers with a warning label that shows how to use it safely. If they fail to do this, people may use a product incorrectly and injure themselves. A company may also be held liable in situations like these. If a consumer is injured because of a defective product, they may be able to hold the company responsible for their injury through product liability laws.
Types of Cases
An individual may become injured by a faulty product in many ways. There are three types of defect cases:
- Design defect: When a product’s design causes an injury. This happens if a designer does not consider a user’s safety when designing it. In a liability case, the injured must show there was a safer and economically feasible alternative design.
- Manufacturer defect: When a manufacturer does not follow guidelines and creates a product differently, it may become defective and hurt a user. In a case, the injured must show the manufacturer deviated from the guidelines in making the product.
- Failure to warn: When a company does not provide warning labels for products that can be harmful if used incorrectly. It is important to not throw out the product as it can be used as evidence.
Compensation
If a consumer is injured due to a faulty product, they may receive monetary compensation for the incident. When injuries require medical assistance, the individual may become overwhelmed with bills. If a company is responsible for the injury, they may owe the injured compensation to cover these costs.
Contact our experienced Maryland firm
If you have been injured in an accident and wish to speak with an attorney about your best course of action, contact the Law Offices of Albers & Associates today.
Albers & Associates is comprised of experienced personal injury, criminal defense, and family law attorneys. Our firm is proud to serve clients in Baltimore, Maryland. If you require strong legal representation that will fight to protect your future, contact the attorneys at Albers & Associates to schedule a consultation.