Consequences of Product Liability
By: Daniel Berry | Posted: 26th November 2008
The news is regularly full of stories about recalled products. In some cases, these recalls are ordered to prevent possible damage from a defective product. Unfortunately, many of these recalls are a result of actual injury, or damage, to consumers who have purchased the product in question. Product liability refers to laws requiring that manufacturers, distributors and retailers be responsible for injuries that result from their products.
Common Types of Product Liability
There are generally three different types of product liability claims, which can occur at any stage of the product process from design to marketing to manufacturing. Each of these can contribute to some sort of riding lawn mower accident or farm machinery accident.
The first involves some type of defect in the product design that led to injury or death. Defects that occur in the manufacturing process can also lead to product liability cases. In both these cases, the issue of crashworthiness may be important, particularly if the designer or manufacturer of a riding mower or tractor failed to take into account modern safety standards concerning materials or guards.
Additionally, failing to warn customers about potential dangers of using the item can also end in a product liability claim. For example, if manufacturers fail to warn consumer about defects to farm equipment and it results in a front end loader accident, the distributor of the product may be held liable for any injuries that resulted from this failure to warn consumers.
It is also important to note that product liability is not simply intended to cover tangible products. Other items such as real estate, natural gas and pets are also included under product liability laws. In situations where these products lead to harm, the business may be held responsible.
Effects of Product Liability
Defective and dangerous products can lead to devastating consequences. Possible outcomes range from minor injuries to property damage to death. In some cases, dozens, or even hundreds, of consumers may be affected before the product is finally recalled, or taken off the market.
Product liability laws are designed to protect consumers and hold businesses responsible for the products they sell. Individuals who have been injured by a consumer product may be eligible for financial compensation for their medical costs, pain, suffering, lost wages and other effects. Since product liability laws vary from state to state, consumers should always consult a personal injury attorney for further information on their rights and options.
Finding legal assistance is important if you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to someone's negligence. Farm equipment accident attorneys, tractor accident attorneys, and riding lawn mower accident attorneys have the experience to receive compensation for financial losses, physical injuries, and emotional distress.This article is free for republishing
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Tags: consequences, failure, consumers, tangible products, pets, minor injuries, defective product, lawn mower, natural gas, manufacturing process, riding mower, safety standards