“We have learned to live in a world of mistakes and defective products as if they were necessary to life. It is time to adopt a new philosophy in America.”

Norman Cousins
1915-1990, American Editor, Humanitarian, Author

What is Product Liability?

Product liability is the umbrella term used to cover a variety of claims that may stem from a defective product when it causes someone harm. These claims may be brought for defective design, defective manufacturing, and may also be brought for absent or inadequate instruction or warning on the use or dangers of the product. In addition, certain product liability claims may be brought against one or more entities in the chain of production of a product, from the designer and manufacturer down to the distributer and seller of the product.

Many of the safety features on products we use every day, such as vehicle airbags, seatbelts, warning labels, guards, and automatic shutoff mechanisms are the result of a product liability claim. In addition, some highly dangerous chemicals, medical devices, and drugs such as Bextra, CFCs, and DES, have been improved or taken off the market entirely with the help of product liability claims. This is one type of personal injury claim that can have a very far-reaching effect.

Types of Product Liability Cases

Product liability claims can be brought regarding any product designed, manufactured, and sold. Some notable examples of product liability cases that have garnered national attention are:

Automobile

• Ford Pinto Explosions
• Firestone Tires
• Ford Rollover Cases
• ATV Rollovers

Food, Drug, and Medical Device

• Bextra
• DES
• Zyprexa
• Internal Defibrillators
• Tobacco

How We Can Help

Product liability cases are among the most complex and difficult cases in the realm of personal injury and as such, should only be pursued using an attorney. Reasons for this complexity stem from the fact that claims are often brought against multiple companies, some of which may be large international corporations, and require a significant amount of investigation to trace the source of the product defect or liability issue. Furthermore, it is necessary to find and hire experts to learn the technical aspects about the product defect and testify about the product to a jury. In addition, a number of product liability cases are for products that have national or international distribution, so it is not uncommon for products liability cases to evolve into class action cases or multi-district litigation.

We have a great deal of experience handling product liability claims. We would be happy to discuss your concerns about a product or medication you have used. Please contact us.