Product liability refers to the legal responsibility that manufacturers, distributors, and retailers have when a product causes harm to a consumer due to a defect. As consumers, we trust that the products we use—from household appliances to automobiles and prescription drugs—are safe. But when a product fails and causes injury, the consequences can be severe. Understanding your rights is critical.
Types of Product Defects
There are three main categories of product defects that can lead to liability:
1. Design Defects
A design defect is inherent in the product itself. Even if the product is manufactured correctly, the design makes it unreasonably dangerous. For example, a space heater that tips over easily and catches fire may have a design flaw that poses a safety risk in all units.
2. Manufacturing Defects
These defects occur during the production or assembly of a product. In this case, the design may be sound, but a mistake in the manufacturing process creates a hazard. A batch of tainted medication or a car with improperly installed airbags are examples.
3. Marketing Defects (Failure to Warn)
When a product doesn’t come with adequate warnings or instructions, it can lead to injuries. Products that require special handling, like industrial equipment or certain pharmaceuticals, must include clear warnings and proper usage instructions.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Multiple parties may be held accountable in a product liability claim:
- Manufacturers: This includes large corporations as well as smaller component manufacturers.
- Distributors: Companies that move the product along the supply chain can also be responsible.
- Retailers: Even though the retailer didn’t manufacture the product, they can still be liable for selling a defective product.
In California, product liability operates under a strict liability principle. This means that you do not need to prove negligence. You only need to show that the product was defective, you used it as intended, and it caused your injury.
Common Product Liability Cases
Everyday items can become dangerous under the right (or wrong) circumstances. Some of the most common product liability cases include:
- Auto defects: Faulty brakes, defective airbags, or tires that blow out unexpectedly.
- Pharmaceuticals: Prescription drugs that cause unforeseen side effects due to insufficient testing or undisclosed risks.
- Children’s products: Toys with choking hazards or cribs with structural flaws.
- Home appliances: Space heaters, microwaves, or electrical devices that pose a fire hazard.
- Medical devices: Faulty implants or surgical tools that break inside the body.
What To Do If You’re Injured
If you believe a defective product caused your injury, you should take the following steps to protect your rights:
- Seek medical attention immediately for your injuries.
- Preserve the product and any packaging or instructions. Don’t throw anything away.
- Document your injuries and gather evidence, including photos, receipts, and medical reports.
- Do not attempt to repair or alter the product, as this can affect your case.
- Contact a personal injury lawyer with experience in product liability.
These steps can significantly increase your chances of a successful claim.
Understanding Compensation
Product liability claims can result in compensation for various damages, including:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost income or reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish especially reckless behavior by the manufacturer or seller.
Statute of Limitations in California
In California, the statute of limitations for product liability is two years from the date of injury. However, if you didn’t discover the injury right away (such as with toxic exposure or medical devices), the time limit may start from the date you discovered or reasonably should have discovered the injury.
That said, delaying action can jeopardize your case. Crucial evidence can disappear or deteriorate over time, so it’s best to act quickly.
Why Legal Experience Matters
Product liability cases are often complex. Large corporations typically have teams of lawyers and deep resources. They may deny wrongdoing, shift blame, or try to downplay your injuries.
At Hayes Law, we know how to handle these tactics. Our firm has successfully gone up against major companies and won. We understand the technical details, regulatory landscape, and legal precedents that shape product liability law in California.
How We Can Help
At Hayes Law, our mission is to protect the rights of consumers who have been harmed by dangerous or defective products. With over [X] years of combined experience, attorneys Jillian Hayes and Jim Hayes have built a reputation for taking on high-stakes product liability cases and achieving exceptional results—even against some of the largest companies in the country.
We offer personalized, compassionate representation while fighting aggressively for the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured by a faulty product, don’t hesitate to reach out. We offer free consultations and will review your case to help you understand your legal options.
Let Hayes Law be your advocate when it matters most.
