This is a multi-state form covering the subject matter of the title.
This is a multi-state form covering the subject matter of the title.
Product liability insurance is recommended for every party in the distribution chain. Even if a part of the chain is not solely responsible, a claim will often name all parties in any litigation. This may require specialist lawyers, and costs can rack up very quickly unless covered under a products liability policy.
California's Strict Liability Rule This rule states that manufacturers, distributors, and retailers can be held liable if their product is found to be defective, regardless of whether they were negligent or not.
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.
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.
The term “as-is” comes from the law of warranty and is used to mean that the seller of an item has no liability for any defects it may have. The buyer who takes an item “as is” accepts the item in the condition it is in, even if it is defective, and the seller is released from all liability.
In most cases, the liability falls on the manufacturer and sometimes the retailer. Product liability is based on the principle that all consumers have a fundamental right to safe and effective products.
With regard to products liability, a defendant is liable when the plaintiff proves that the product is defective, regardless of the defendant's intent. It is irrelevant whether the manufacturer or supplier exercised great care; if there is a defect in the product that causes harm, he or she will be liable for it.
In California, the strict liability rule plays a pivotal role in product liability cases. This rule states that manufacturers, distributors, and retailers can be held liable if their product is found to be defective, regardless of whether they were negligent or not.
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.
Defective products can result from design flaws, manufacturing errors, or inadequate warnings. Common examples include faulty electronics that overheat, dangerous toys with small parts, and defective automotive components that cause accidents.