Posted on Thursday, August 1st, 2024 at 9:00 am
Thousands of product liability claims are filed in the United States every year. When products that we rely on cause harm or injury, it is crucial to hold manufacturers accountable.
Manufacturer product liability law helps ensure that manufacturers accept responsibility for the safety of their products. If you are dealing with injuries from a defective product, knowing your rights can ensure you are better able to advocate for them and seek compensation.
Importance of holding manufacturers accountable
Holding manufacturers accountable for defective products serves multiple purposes. It can:
- Help ensure that companies follow safety standards;
- Reduce the likelihood of future incidents; and
- Provide justice for those harmed.
When manufacturers know they can be held legally liable, they are more likely to invest in rigorous testing and quality control measures, ultimately benefiting all consumers.
What is manufacturer product liability?
Manufacturer product liability is an area of law that covers the legal responsibility of manufacturers to ensure that their products are safe for consumer use. When a product causes harm due to defects, the person injured by those defects can pursue legal action to hold the manufacturer accountable. This liability extends to various stages of the product’s lifecycle, from design to marketing.
In a product liability claim, liability means the manufacturer can be responsible for any harm caused by defective products. There are three primary categories of defects that can lead to product liability claims. These are:
- Manufacturing defects. These flaws can occur at any time during the production process. They can arise from problems like subpar materials or errors on the production line.
- Design defects. These are inherent flaws in the product’s design that render it unsafe, even if the manufacturing process is correct.
- Marketing defects (also called failure to warn). These are inadequate instructions or warnings about the product’s risks that can lead to misuse and harm.
Legal responsibilities of product manufacturers
Product manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure the safety of the products they develop for consumers. This involves:
Duty of care
Manufacturers must guarantee the safety of their products for consumers. This responsibility includes proactively taking measures to mitigate risks, like performing safety assessments and reducing potential dangers. Neglecting this responsibility may lead to accountability for any resulting injuries.
Compliance with regulatory standards
Manufacturers must comply with regulatory standards set by government agencies and industry bodies. These regulations protect consumers by establishing minimum safety requirements. Non-compliance can lead to legal action and significant penalties.
Testing and quality control
Rigorous testing and quality control are essential for ensuring product safety. Manufacturers must implement comprehensive testing protocols to identify and address potential defects before products reach the market. This proactive approach can prevent harm and reduce manufacturer liability.
Defective product claims against manufacturers
Filing a defective product claim involves demonstrating the defect and proving that it caused your injury. Injured people can file several types of legal claims against manufacturers for harm caused by defective products, including:
- Negligence – Filing a claim under the theory of negligence requires showing that the manufacturer did not exercise reasonable care when manufacturing or producing a specific product.
- Strict liability – These claims are a type of legal action that holds the manufacturer liable for injuries resulting from the defective product regardless of the manufacturer’s conduct.
- Breach of warranty – This involves showing that the product did not meet the terms of an express or implied warranty, leading to injury.
- Misrepresentation – If a manufacturer knowingly misrepresented the safety or effectiveness of their product, they can be liable for any resulting injuries.
Ensuring product safety and compliance
Manufacturers can adopt several best practices to enhance product safety and ensure the well-being of consumers. One of the most crucial steps is establishing comprehensive safety guidelines and procedures to prevent defects throughout the production process. This includes developing clear protocols for each stage of manufacturing, from design to assembly, which can help identify potential risks early on.
In addition, conducting regular audits of safety practices is essential. These audits should assess compliance with existing safety standards and evaluate the effectiveness of current practices in mitigating risks. Updating safety procedures as needed to keep pace with evolving industry standards and regulations is vital for maintaining a safe product lifecycle. Engaging employees in safety training and fostering a culture of safety can further enhance overall product safety and reliability.
When a product defect is discovered, timely recalls and remediation are crucial. Manufacturers must take immediate action to recall defective products and offer remedies, such as repairs, replacements, or refunds. Proper recall handling can mitigate legal risks and protect consumer well-being.
Contact our Chicago product liability lawyers
Understanding manufacturer product liability is essential for protecting your rights as a consumer after you’ve been harmed by a dangerous product through no fault of your own. By holding manufacturers accountable, you help ensure that they prioritize safety and quality.
If you have been injured by a defective product, consult an experienced Chicago product liability lawyer from Wallace Miller. Our team can provide the guidance and support you need to navigate your case. Call us at (331) 425-8022 or fill out our case evaluation to discuss your rights and legal options.
Left to right: Timothy E. Jackson, Nicholas P. Kelly, Molly Condon Wells, Matthew J. Goldstein, Jessica Wieczorkiewicz, Mark R. Miller, Edward A. Wallace.