Every day, consumers use products expecting them to be safe. However, when defective products cause injuries, understanding your rights under California’s product liability laws is essential. Whether you are a consumer or a business owner, knowing how product liability works can help you navigate potential legal issues. This blog will explain what product liability is, the types of claims, and how the laws protect you in California.
What is Product Liability?
Product liability refers to the legal responsibility of manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and others involved in the supply chain to ensure that their products are safe for consumer use. If a product is defective and causes harm, these parties may be held liable for the damages. California law aims to protect consumers by holding companies accountable for the safety of their products.
Types of Product Liability Claims in California
There are three main types of product liability claims: design defects, manufacturing defects, and failure to warn (also known as marketing defects). Each type has specific characteristics and legal considerations.
Design Defects
• What is it? A design defect occurs when a product is inherently dangerous due to its design, even if it is manufactured correctly. This means that the product was unsafe from the start.
• Example: A stroller with a poorly designed locking mechanism that could suddenly collapse, posing a risk to children, would be considered to have a design defect.
Manufacturing Defects
• What is it? Manufacturing defects happen when the product’s design is safe, but an error occurs during production, making a specific batch or unit dangerous.
• Example: If a batch of bicycles is manufactured with faulty brakes, even though the design is safe, the defect would be a result of an error during the manufacturing process.
Failure to Warn (Marketing Defects)
• What is it? Failure to warn, or marketing defects, occur when a company fails to provide adequate instructions, warnings, or labels to inform consumers of potential risks associated with using the product.
• Example: A medication that does not include proper warnings about potential side effects or interactions with other drugs may lead to a failure-to-warn claim.
Legal Responsibilities Under California Law
California’s product liability laws are strict, meaning that a plaintiff does not have to prove that a manufacturer or seller was negligent—only that the product was defective and caused harm. This standard makes it easier for injured parties to seek compensation for their injuries.
Strict Liability
• Definition: Strict liability means that a company can be held responsible for damages caused by a defective product, regardless of whether they acted with negligence. The key focus is on the defectiveness of the product and its direct link to the injury.
• Who Can Be Liable? Manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and anyone else involved in the supply chain may be held liable under strict liability if their product is found to be defective.
Negligence and Breach of Warranty
• Negligence: If a manufacturer or seller fails to exercise reasonable care in designing, manufacturing, or marketing a product, they may also be held liable under a negligence claim.
• Breach of Warranty: If a product fails to meet the terms of its express or implied warranty, the consumer may have grounds for a breach of warranty claim. This means the product did not perform as expected or promised.
Protecting Your Rights as a Consumer
If you have been injured by a defective product, it’s important to take steps to protect your rights. Start by preserving the product and any receipts or documentation. Seek medical attention for your injuries and consult with a product liability attorney to discuss your case. They can help you understand your rights and explore your legal options.
Product liability laws in California play a crucial role in protecting consumers from dangerous and defective products. Whether you are dealing with a design flaw, manufacturing error, or lack of proper warnings, understanding your legal rights can help you seek the compensation you deserve. If you have been harmed by a defective product, reach out to Law Advocate Group, LLP for expert legal support and guidance on your case.
