Before hitting the shelves, it is a legal obligation for manufacturers and designers to jump through hoops to ensure a product is completely safe. However, there are many instances where defective products are sold to consumers. Whether the defect lies in the design or manufacturing process, a defective product can be dangerous and cause serious injury. If it causes personal injury, you can seek monetary compensation for all that you have suffered. Here is a comprehensive guide about defective products and what to do if you have a defective or dangerous product.
Refrain From Using the Product
As soon as you discover that a product is defective, you should refrain from using it at once. A defective product can cause injury, so the quicker you stop using it, the lower the chance you have of injuring yourself as a result of the product. However, if you do end up hurting yourself, the responsibility may lie with many different parties. For instance, the fault could be with the designers of the product, the manufacturers, retail establishments, or even wholesalers.
Don’t Throw the Product Away
It is essential to keep the defective product. Although many companies advise you to throw away a product or send it to a named address after it has been recalled, it is in your best interests to keep the product instead and not tamper with it. By closely examining this defective product, this item can be used as evidence should you wish to make a claim. Furthermore, it can be used to figure out how the defect occurred to begin with.
Store it in a Safe Place
If possible, you need to keep this product in a safe place where it won’t be a danger to yourself or others. With some products, it is easy enough to put them back in their original packaging and keep it somewhere safe. However, certain products need to be stored with precaution. For instance, medication can be dangerous if left out on display and within reach of vulnerable people, such as small children. This type of product should be stored in a place where it will not be accidentally taken. Any defective agricultural product and products containing hazardous materials should be stored away from all other equipment to reduce the risk of damage or injury to your workplace and your employees. Electrical products should be kept away from all items that could increase the risk of an accidental fire.
Were You Injured By the Defective Product?
A defective product can lead to serious or catastrophic injury, which is why it is a serious concern if you come across one. If you have become injured in some way as a result of a defective product, there are product liability laws in place that can help you get the compensation owed to you, by the manufacturer or the seller, for damages. If you have sustained injuries due to the defective product, you can seek compensation for medical bills you have paid, wages you have lost, and physical and emotional suffering you have experienced.
Steps to Take After Your Injury
In a product liability case, either the plaintiff or the injured person needs to prove that their injury was caused by a manufacturing or design defect in the product. They also need to prove that they were not given enough warning about the potential dangers of the product. Following an injury from a defective product, there are several steps you should take. If you have become injured as a result of defective products, the first step should be to seek the help of an experienced public liability lawyer.
Get Legal Help
Public liability laws are incredibly complex, which is why seeking the help of a qualified attorney who specializes in public liability laws is the best way to give yourself a high chance of getting compensation. When it comes to defective products, one major concern is whose fault it is – the manufacturer’s or the designer’s? An attorney that specializes in the area of expertise can help you correctly pinpoint the source of negligence. After the right party has been identified, the public liability lawyer can then pursue the compensation you deserve. A lawyer will give you top-notch legal assistance so that you can build a strong case.
Seek Medical Attention
If you have been injured by a defective product, it is essential that you seek medical help immediately. Visit the nearest health center or hospital so that your injuries can be properly treated. Although it might be tempting to stay at home and see if your pain goes away by itself, this may seriously compromise your recovery and your health. Furthermore, if you visit a healthcare provider, any injuries you have sustained will be documented in formal medical records. This is essential if you wish to make a public liability claim because this documentation will serve as evidence. Once you finally leave the health clinic or hospital, it is imperative to follow the advice of your doctor. If you keep the incident to yourself, you could risk having a negative effect on your personal injury case.
Keep All Records of the Product
If you plan to make a claim, you need to make sure you keep together all records of the product. You need proof of purchase, proof of where you purchased the product from, and when you purchased it. Documents you should keep include receipts and all records included with the product, such as the warranty and the instruction manual. If the product is a drug, keep any prescriptions you may have. Invoices for repair and maintenance work can also help your case. The original packaging should be retained too.
Document Everything
Photos and videos of any sustained injuries that were caused by the defective product can help you build a strong case. All medical records should be kept in a safe place too. On the other hand, try to avoid posting anything on social media in case it negatively affects your case.
