The principle behind defective product lawsuits is simple—manufacturers have an obligation to sell reasonably safe products to the public. Any risks associated with a product must be disclosed, and any potentially dangerous product must be made as safe as possible for consumer use. When companies fail to exercise care and provide people like you with safe products, the law gives us the right to hold them accountable before a jury. These claims are known as product liability claims.
You have an opportunity for justice—Peterson & Associates, P.C. can help you seize it.
Our Kanas City law firm helps people who have been harmed by defective products seek answers, fight for justice, and secure financial compensation. Our power, our passion, and our dedication make us uniquely suited for handling defective product cases, which can be both costly and complex.
What Is Product Liability?
Product liability refers to the legal responsibility of manufacturers, distributors, and sellers for injuries caused by defective products. The main goal of product liability laws is to ensure that consumers are protected from dangerous products and that companies are held accountable for putting unsafe products on the market.
Product liability claims include, but are not limited to, the following types of cases:
- Automotive failure
- Medical device failure
- Harmful drugs or medications
- Toxic substances in household products
- Defective products, including children's toys
Types of Product Liability Claims
There are three types of product liability claims that you may pursue if you have been injured by a defective product: manufacturing defects, design defects, and failure to warn.
Manufacturing Defects
Manufacturing defects occur during the manufacturing process and affect only a small number of products. Manufacturing defects can be caused by errors in the assembly line or the use of substandard materials. For example, a car may have a manufacturing defect if it was built with a faulty brake system.
Design Defects
These defects occur during the design phase and affect all products of a particular line. Design defects are inherent in the product and cannot be traced back to an error in the manufacturing process. For example, a ladder may have a design defect if it lacks a safety feature that would prevent it from collapsing.
Failure to Warn
These claims arise when a product lacks adequate warnings or instructions for safe use. Companies have a duty to warn consumers of potential dangers associated with the use of their products. For example, a medication may have a failure to warn claim if the packaging did not include instructions for use or warnings about potential side effects.
How a Product Liability Lawyer Can Help You
If you have been injured by a defective product, a Missouri defective product lawyer can help you in the following ways:
- Investigating the product. Your attorney will investigate the product and determine if it had any defects. They may consult with experts in the field to determine if the product was defective in design or manufacture.
- Gathering evidence. Your attorney will gather evidence to support your claim, such as medical records, witness statements, and product testing reports.
- Identifying liability. Your attorney will identify the parties responsible for your injuries, such as the product's manufacturer, distributor, or seller.
- Negotiating a settlement. Your attorney will negotiate a settlement with the responsible parties, which may include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Litigating your case. If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will litigate your case in court and argue for your rights as a victim of a defective product.
Why Choose Peterson & Associates, P.C.?
Peterson & Associates, P.C. has a proven track record of success in product liability cases. Our team of experienced attorneys has a deep understanding of the law and the tactics companies use to avoid responsibility. We have the resources and expertise to thoroughly investigate your case and fight for your rights in court.
We understand that a product liability case can be emotionally and financially challenging, and we are committed to providing compassionate and personalized service to our clients. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means that we only get paid if we win your case.