When you purchase and use a product, you put your trust in its safety and effectiveness. But when a defective product causes harm, the consequences can be severe and even life-altering. In Maryland, injured consumers can seek compensation for their injuries and damages through product liability claims, which can prove to be complex legal matters.
This guide aims to demystify the various aspects of product liability claims, providing injured consumers with essential information to help them understand their rights and options in holding negligent manufacturers accountable. Our objective is to educate injury victims on the three main types of product liability claims in Maryland: design defects, manufacturing defects, and failure to warn.
We will outline common examples of defective products, the role of strict liability in these claims, and the steps you should take if you suspect a product is responsible for your injury. Additionally, we will emphasize the value of working with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help guide you through this intricate process and maximize your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your damages.
Types of Product Liability Claims in Maryland
There are three main types of product liability claims in Maryland, each attributable to a distinct aspect of the product’s life cycle:
- Design Defects: A design defect occurs when an inherent flaw in the product’s design makes it dangerous. In such cases, injury victims must prove that the manufacturer could have used an alternative, safer design that would not have affected the product’s functionality or cost.
- Manufacturing Defects: Manufacturing defects involve errors that are introduced during the production process. These defects often affect a limited number of items within a product line as opposed to an entire range of products.
- Failure to Warn: In a failure to warn claim, victims argue that the manufacturer did not provide adequate instructions or warnings to educate consumers about the product’s potential hazards.
Common Examples of Defective Products
Various consumer products have the potential to become dangerous due to defects:
- Automobiles: Faulty automobile parts, such as defective airbags, tires, brakes, or accelerators, can lead to serious accidents and injuries.
- Medical Devices: Defective medical devices, like faulty hip implants, pacemakers, or mesh, can cause severe complications, additional surgeries, or even death.
- Children’s Products: When toys, baby equipment, or other children’s products have defects, young users may be at risk of injury or harm, leading to possible product liability claims.
- Household Appliances: Dangerous defects in household appliances, like heaters, dehumidifiers, or washing machines, can cause fires, explosions, or other types of injuries.
The Role of Strict Liability in Product Liability Claims
Strict liability is a legal principle that plays a significant role in many product liability claims:
- No Need to Prove Negligence: Under strict liability, injury victims do not need to prove that the manufacturer was negligent. Instead, they must show that the product is defective and that the defect caused their injuries.
- Focus on the Defect: With strict liability, the focus is on establishing the existence of a defect and its direct link to the victim’s harm, rather than focusing on the manufacturer’s actions or lack thereof.
- Limits of Strict Liability: It is important to note that strict liability does not guarantee a successful outcome for a product liability claim. Injury victims must still provide evidence to support their claims, such as expert testimony regarding the product’s design or manufacturing.
Steps to Take if You Suspect a Defective Product Caused Your Injury
If you believe a defective product has caused your injury, taking the following steps can help strengthen your product liability claim:
- Preserve the Product: Keep the defective product in its original condition, as it may serve as essential evidence in your claim.
- Document Your Injuries: Seek medical help and maintain records of your treatment and the extent of your injuries.
- Gather Evidence: Collect any documents related to the product, such as receipts, instruction manuals, or safety warnings. If possible, take photographs of the defective product and the scene of the injury.
- Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney: Consult with an attorney who is experienced in product liability claims as soon as possible. They can provide guidance on the necessary steps to take and help build a solid case on your behalf.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the complex world of product liability claims in Maryland can be daunting, but understanding the various aspects of these claims is critical for injured consumers seeking justice.
Working with an experienced personal injury attorney, like the compassionate and skilled team at Benevan Law Firm, can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome. We understand the intricacies of product liability law and are dedicated to helping injury victims obtain the compensation they rightfully deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation with our personal injury attorney in Maryland, and let us help you on your journey toward recovery and justice.