Defective products can cause serious injuries and financial losses. If you’ve been harmed by a broken product in California, you may have the right to file a product liability claim. Understanding the key elements of these claims is essential for protecting your rights and pursuing compensation. At Wilshire Law Firm, we help victims of defective products navigate complex laws and hold negligent manufacturers accountable. If you have questions about your case, we offer free consultations and no fees unless you get paid.
What Is Product Liability?
Product liability refers to the legal responsibility of manufacturers, distributors, and retailers for injuries caused by defective products. These claims aim to ensure that companies prioritize consumer safety and compensate victims when they fail to do so.
Types of Product Defects
To succeed in a product liability claim, you must show that the product was defective. Common types of defects include:
- Design Defects: Flaws in the product’s design make it inherently unsafe.
- Manufacturing Defects: Errors during production cause the product to deviate from its intended design.
- Failure to Warn: Inadequate instructions or missing safety warnings lead to misuse and injury.
Key Elements of a Product Liability Claim
To establish liability, you generally need to prove:
1. The Product Was Defective
You must demonstrate that the product had a design flaw, manufacturing error, or lacked proper warnings.
2. The Defect Caused Your Injury
There must be a direct link between the defect and the harm you suffered.
3. You Were Using the Product as Intended
Claims are stronger when the product was used according to its instructions or in a reasonably foreseeable way.
4. You Suffered Damages
This includes physical injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other measurable losses.
Common Injuries from Defective Products
Defective products can cause:
- Burns and electrocution
- Broken bones
- Head and brain injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Illness from contaminated food or drugs
These injuries often require extensive medical care and can lead to long-term complications.
Compensation Available in Product Liability Cases
Victims may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Future care costs
The amount depends on the severity of injuries and other case-specific factors.
Steps to Take After a Defective Product Injury
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Your health and safety come first.
- Preserve the Product: Keep the defective item and any packaging as evidence.
- Document Everything: Take photos, gather receipts, and keep medical records.
- Consult an Attorney: Legal guidance can help you protect your rights and build a strong case.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Product liability cases can be complex, involving multiple parties and technical evidence. An experienced attorney can:
- Investigate the defect
- Work with experts to prove liability
- Negotiate with insurers and manufacturers
- Advocate for fair compensation
At Wilshire Law Firm, we provide:
- Award-Winning Legal Representation
- Proven Track Record in Product Liability Cases
- Client-Focused Service from Start to Finish
We never make guarantees about outcomes, but we work tirelessly to protect your rights. We offer free consultations and no fees unless you get paid.
Get Your Free Consultation Today
If you’ve been injured by a defective product in Los Angeles, contact Wilshire Law Firm today. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you take the next step toward justice. Call us now or fill out our online form.
