What To Know About Injuries From Defective Products
Michael Babboni
Personal Injury
Recalls
More than 18 million people call Florida home, and every day across the state a wide range of accidents and incidents happen. These accidents can lead to everything from minor injuries to serious, life-altering ones to death. While most of the accidents in the state are caused by traffic incidents or workplace ones, another cause exists that deserves closer attention too – injuries caused by defective products.Defective product injuries cover a lot of ground. From an electronic device at home that electrocutes to a vehicle part that fails and triggers an accident, there are numerous ways that product related injuries can occur. There are a number of things worth keeping in mind concerning this issue, too. These include the following.
- First of all, understand the definition of 'defective product'. You can't seek financial restitution if the product failed due to things like misuse or improper care. Instead, the product must fail due to errors in its design, construction, or original installation. Any use must be under normal, suggested conditions. If it's found that you were using the product inappropriately, failed to maintain or repair it as needed, and so on, you'll essentially void your chance of getting compensation.
- A number of organizations or entitles could be held responsible for injuries caused by defective products. For example, if the flaw is in the way that the product is designed, the engineering firm could be liable. If the construction of the product used faulty materials or processes, that organization could be responsible. If an auto manufacturer was aware of a risk but chose to ignore it completely, they could be to blame. A good attorney will help identify just which entity is responsible for your injuries – it could be multiple ones.
- If a recall was issued for the product prior to your injuries, and if it can be shown that you were aware or had ample time to be aware of the recall, you won't be able to seek compensation since the courts will regard this as you taking on the risk willingly. However, if the recall is issued after your injuries, you will most likely have the grounds to seek compensation – even if you've already tried in the past. Recalls are issued almost regularly these days.
- Settlement amounts are based on a variety of factors. Everything from your current medical bills to potential future lost wages are used to determine how accurate a settlement amount is, and it's important that you don't accept a sudden offer just because it's the first one you're given – it could be a lowball offer designed to help the company avoid future responsibilities. Instead, you need to meet with a professional who can tell you whether or not your settlement amount is a fair offer.
- The entire process of seeking compensation for injuries caused by a defective product can be very complex and labor intensive. Even determining whether or not you have the rights do so can be difficult. Because of this, seeking professional assistance from an attorney is the best course you can take.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to defective products of any kind, it's in your best interests to talk to an attorney. With decades of experience in personal injury law, we're here and ready to help. Our team has experience in defective product injuries and all aspects of personal injury law as well. Don't hesitate to contact our office today to set up a consultation visit and learn more about how we can help you.