Protecting Injury Victims in Defective Product Cases
When a defective product causes harm, the consequences can be severe. Faulty machinery, consumer products, and industrial equipment can lead to serious or fatal injuries, leaving victims with extensive medical bills, lost wages, and long-term suffering. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a dangerous or defective product, you may have legal options under product liability law.
At our law firm, our Rochester product liability lawyers are dedicated to holding manufacturers and distributors accountable for selling unsafe products. We help injury victims pursue product liability claims to recover financial compensation for their losses. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Understanding Product Liability in New York
Under New York law, manufacturers, retailers, and distributors can be held liable if their products cause harm due to defects. Products liability cases typically involve one of the following types of defects:
- Design defect – A flaw in the product’s design that makes it inherently dangerous.
- Manufacturing defect – An error during production that causes the product to be unsafe.
- Marketing defects – Failure to provide proper warnings or instructions for safe use.
New York follows the principle of strict liability, meaning that a product manufacturer can be held responsible for a product-related injury even if they were not negligent. If a defective consumer product caused your injury, you may have the right to file a defective product claim under strict product liability laws.
Common Types of Dangerous Products
Many types of dangerous products can lead to personal injury cases, including:
- Heavy machinery and industrial equipment
- Household appliances with electrical hazards
- Prescription drugs with undisclosed side effects
- Medical devices that fail to function as intended
- Children’s toys with choking hazards
- Vehicles with faulty brakes or airbags
When these products fail, the person injured may be entitled to seek compensation through a product liability lawsuit.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Product Liability Case?
Several parties may be held accountable in products liability claims, including:
- The product manufacturer
- The company that designed the product
- The distributor or retailer who sold the product
To pursue a claim, it is necessary to show that the plaintiff suffered harm due to the product defect. Our legal team will gather evidence such as medical records, product recalls, and expert testimony to build a strong case.
Compensation Available in Product Liability Lawsuits
Victims of defective products may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical bills and physical therapy
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death claims for families who lost a loved one
If a defective product has caused fatal injuries, surviving family members may have the right to file a wrongful death claim. Our attorneys will ensure that responsible parties are held accountable for their negligence.
Statute of Limitations for Product Liability Cases in New York
Under New York court rules, there is a strict statute of limitations for filing a product liability lawsuit. In most cases, injury victims have three years from the date of the injury to file a claim. However, certain factors may affect this deadline, making it essential to take legal action in a timely manner.
Why Choose Our Rochester Product Liability Lawyers?
Our law firm has extensive experience handling product liability cases throughout western New York. We understand the complexities of New York law and are committed to helping injury victims secure the compensation they deserve. With a dedicated legal team, we provide aggressive representation against large companies that fail to prioritize consumer safety.
If you or a loved one was injured due to a defective product, do not wait to explore your legal options. The sooner you act, the better your chances of securing the compensation you need.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
Our attorneys are ready to help you fight for justice. If you were injured due to a defective product, contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Learn more about product liability claims. Call Brown Chiari LLP at (716) 681-7190 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
FAQs
What is a product liability claim?
A product liability claim is a legal case filed against a manufacturer, distributor, or retailer when a defective product causes injury. These claims fall under strict product liability laws, meaning that proving negligence is not always required.
What types of defects can lead to a product liability lawsuit?
There are three main types of defects: design defects, manufacturing defects, and marketing defects. Each of these can make a product unreasonably dangerous and lead to legal action.
How long do I have to file a product liability claim in New York?
Under New York law, the statute of limitations for most product liability claims is three years from the date of the injury. However, certain exceptions may apply, so it is important to consult a lawyer as soon as possible.
What compensation can I recover in a product liability lawsuit?
Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and, in some cases, punitive damages. If the injury suffered was fatal, the victim’s family may pursue a wrongful death claim.
How can a lawyer help with my product liability case?
A lawyer will investigate the product defect, gather evidence such as medical records and product recalls, and build a strong case against the liable party. An experienced attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.