You likely encounter dozens, if not hundreds, of different items daily. From your phone and laptop to the knives you use in the kitchen when preparing dinner, you likely don’t think twice about how these products were made before using them. As such, suffering an injury caused by a flaw or defect can be startling, and pursuing compensation may seem daunting. However, the following blog explores what parties can be held responsible for damage caused by a defective product to help you receive justice. You’ll also discover how a Sacramento product liability lawyer can help you recover compensation.
What Are Product Defects?
Any time a product does not work how it is intended or advertised to, it is considered defective. Generally, there are two forms of defects: design flaws and manufacturing errors. Both of these can cause significant injury to the user.
Design flaws are inherent issues with the blueprint or design of the product. For example, if a hair dryer cannot withstand the highest heat setting and catches on fire after a minute of use, that is a design flaw. This means all hair dryers produced using this design are defective, as none can withstand the heat due to the poor design.
However, a manufacturing error occurs when the once-perfect and safe blueprints are put into production. If the hair dryer’s design is safe, but a critical electrical component is missed when it is assembled during production, it may cause electrocution. As such, this is a manufacturing error because the issue comes with how the product is assembled.
It’s also crucial to note that failure to put proper safety and warning labels on a product can also constitute a defective product. Some products may be unsafe when used improperly, so adequate warnings must be placed on the product. If there is no warning, someone may use the product incorrectly,
Who Can Be Held Responsible for Injuries Caused by a Defective Product?
Generally, these flaws can cause serious injury in many cases. As such, knowing who can be held liable for compensation is crucial.
The manufacturer can face liability for these injuries, as it is most often their fault, though several parties in the distribution chain may be held responsible. Even if the manufacturer exercised abundant care while making the product, the responsibility of ensuring the product is safe ultimately falls on them.
If injured due to a defect, you mustn’t throw away the product. Having this item can serve as crucial evidence to show there is an inherent flaw in the design or manufacturing, which can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
When injured due to the negligence of a manufacturer, ensuring you contact the Law Offices of Dale R. Gomes is essential. We understand how devastating these injuries can be, so we will do everything possible to help hold the negligent party liable for their actions. Contact us today to learn how we will fight for you.