When we purchase a product in a store, we expect that product to only work but to be a safe item to use. But what can we do if a product we buy ends up hurting us and causing life-altering injuries instead? This type of case is called product liability and involves a defective product hurting a consumer due to negligence of the manufacturer or seller of the item.
There are many different ways a product can be deemed defective. They could be designed incorrectly, have manufacturing defects or failed to warn or label the product correctly. Products can range from prescription medication to car parts, food items, and more. Common examples of defective products include an air bag that is manufactured incorrectly and fails to protect or even harm an individual after an accident occurs, or a drug not listing all of the warnings and risks associated with taking it, and in turn, resulting in damage to the user.
If you are injured by a defective product, there are steps you should take to ensure you get compensated for your injuries.
Stop Using the Product
If you become aware that your airbags are defective, yet continue to drive your car, you could be jeopardizing your case. No matter what the product is, stop using it as soon as you realize it is defective.
See a Doctor
Some defective product injuries will likely result in a trip to the emergency room. But for those products that may not cause that serious of harm, you should still go see a doctor. Explain all of your symptoms and/or injuries and how they relate to the defective product. Be sure to get a copy of your medical records, including any treatment plans you are put under to further prove your claim.
Gather Evidence
As soon as you are injured, take photos of your injuries to prove that they existed and immediately secure the product away into a place where it won’t be touched. If there was someone else who witnessed your injury, ask them to write down their statement and gather their contact information. Your attorney will use this information to further prove that your injury was directly caused by the defective product.
Hire an Attorney
Often, product liability cases can be difficult as it can be hard to prove that a certain product was the direct result of your injury. Having an experienced defective product attorney on your side can help you prove negligence and get you compensation.
If you were injured by a product, you need a defective product attorney on your side to help prove your case and get you the compensation you deserve. For more information about how Stewart & Stewart can help you with your defective product claim, give us a call at 1-800-33-33-LAW or visit our website for more information.