Just consider the massive dimensions involved in select product use across the United States these days.
To wit: Many products are manufactured by multiples of millions and distributed to wholesalers and retailers on seemingly every street corner of the country. When a consumer good takes off (that is, when legions of individuals and families determine that they need or — even better for manufacturers — absolutely must have that product), a clarion call of demand ensues.
And, in many instances, that can have public health and safety implications.
We pointed that out recently in a blog post, noting in our August 9 entry that a product defect inherent in some e-cigarettes is resulting in explosions that are inflicting serious personal injuries upon users.
As frightful as an exploding cigarette is, such a defect is of course but a tiny reminder of the sheer universe of dangers posed to consumers in California and nationally who interact with defective products.
Sudden acceleration in automobiles, toys and strollers that harm infants, reusable medical devices that harbor dangerous bacteria, exploding air bags, tainted food and pharmaceuticals — all these and more present grave risks on a broad scale.
Some dangers are so great that massive product recalls are necessary to protect the public.
Liability in a defective product case can attach to many different actors, including designers, manufacturers, sellers and other entities involved in the supply chain. That fact alone can render a personal injury case centered on a dangerous consumer product complex.
So, too, can multiple other factors. Were others harmed? Is a defendant trying to shelter itself from liability by claiming a time bar? Is a wrongdoer trying to argue that a harmed consumer inappropriately used a product?
In today’s America, a consumer has a reasonable expectation that a purchased product is safe when used as intended, and that a meaningful legal recovery can be pursued when a defect results in a personal injury.
A proven consumer rights’ attorney with experience representing injury victims in defective product cases can provide further information.