To successfully sue for a defective product, you need to prove that: The defendant designed, manufactured, distributed or sold a defective product to the consumer. The consumer used reasonable care when using the product. The consumer was injured due to the defect in the product.
When a product is defective, it means that the product has some kind of flaw or problem that makes it unreasonably dangerous to use. A product may be defective because of poor design, manufacturing errors, or a failure to warn consumers about potential dangers.
The Top 5 Common Warning Signs of a Defective Product There are unusual or unexpected malfunctions. Recalls or safety alerts have been released. There is an increased risk of injuries or illnesses. A lack of clear instructions or warnings exists on the labeling. Unexpected or severe adverse effects occur after use.
There are two main ways to prove a product liability case: 1- the Consumer-Expectation Test and 2- the Risk Utility Test. Under both tests, the plaintiff has the burden to prove that the product that caused injury was defective and unreasonably dangerous.
Generally, to prove product liability you must prove that an inherent defect or misinformation within the product caused the damages claimed. In other words, the plaintiff must prove that the product was inherently defective and that the defect in the product has caused injury or damage.
Important evidence to have includes: Defective product itself (preserve the product as best you can) All receipts, sales contracts, and other documents concerning the product. Documentation of injuries (i.e. photos, medical records, accident reports) Medical bills and payroll records to prove your financial losses.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Product Defect Case in California? Parties that are often held accountable for defective products are manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers.
Some famous examples of product liability claims include the General Motors class-action lawsuit, the RoundUp weed killer lawsuit, and the Big Tobacco lawsuit. Common dangerous products that can result in product liability claims include fireworks, highchairs, pharmaceutical drugs, and defective medical products.
Under California Code of Civil Procedure 335.1, product liability claims generally must be filed within two years of the date of the injury. This is the statute of limitations.
A toy box was defectively manufactured – the hinges were not installed properly on the lid. If a child is playing with the box and the lid closes too quickly because of the defective hinges, it can cause serious injuries to the child.