Wilkes-Barre Product Liability Lawyer
People use different products every day. When consumers use these products, they typically don’t think that they could ever be harmed by them. Unfortunately, defective products injure people all the time and when they do, the injuries are often catastrophic. Everyone has the right to assume the products they use are safe to do so. When that right is violated, injured individuals can file a lawsuit against the manufacturer for any losses they sustained as a result. If you’ve been hurt by a defective product, a Wilkes-Barre product liability lawyer can help you claim the full amount of compensation you deserve.
Types of Defective Products
Nearly any product that is sold to a customer has the potential to contain defects. However, there are certain products that are involved in civil cases more than others. Some of the products seen time and time again in personal injury cases include:
- Children’s toys
- Baby products
- Vehicle parts and equipment
- Industrial equipment
- Chemicals
- Medication
- Medical equipment and devices
Although these are some of the most common products involved in civil cases, they are only a fraction of claims filed every year. Individuals injured by any product can file a claim if they suffer serious injuries as a result.
Categories of Product Liability Claim
All product liability claims will rest on the negligence of the manufacturer. That negligence however, can come in many forms. Namely, there are three different categories of product liability claims.
The first is when there is a defect in the design of the product. When manufacturers are envisioning and imagining their product, they must design it in a way that is safe for people to use. For example, a manufacturer may design a crib with ample padding because it’s aesthetically-pleasing. However, that same padding may pose a suffocation risk. If it does and children become hurt as a result, the parents of those children may have a valid product liability claim.
Manufacturers are responsible for their product long after the design phase. They also have certain duties during the manufacturing phase. If pieces are not securely in place or features are left out during this process, the product is still very dangerous and could cause serious harm. When this is the case, those hurt can hold manufacturers responsible.
Lastly, a product can be designed and manufactured perfectly, but it still carries inherent risks. A chainsaw for example, is an extremely dangerous product if it is not used properly. As such, manufacturers also have a responsibility to warn consumers of those risks. If they fail to do so, they can still be held liable for any injuries that result.
Statute of Limitations on Product Liability Claims
Like all personal injury claims in Pennsylvania, product liability cases have a statute of limitations. This is the time limit you have to file your claim if you’ve been injured by a product. Within the state, you have two years to file your claim. Prior to filing, you must gather evidence to substantiate your claim, collect medical records, and more. An attorney can complete all of these tasks for you, but all of this takes time and presents their own challenges. It’s for this reason it’s important you speak to a product liability attorney as soon as possible.
Were You Hurt by a Product? Call Our Wilkes-Barre Product Liability Lawyers
No one should be hurt by a product they assume is safe to use. If you’ve been injured, call our Wilkes-Barre product liability attorneys at O’Donnell Law Offices today. We know how to hold manufacturers accountable and will fight for your rights to help you recover the full amount of compensation you deserve. Call us today at (570) 821-5717 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.
