Do I Have a Product Liability Claim for a Home Injury?

When you buy a product, you reasonably expect it to function safely and as intended. Unfortunately, a defective product used in your home can lead to devastating injuries. Please continue reading to discover who may be held responsible for your damages and how our experienced Jersey City Product Liability Lawyers can help you pursue the compensation you’re entitled to. 

What is a Defective Product?

First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand that a product may be defective in various ways. These typically fall into three categories: 

• Design Defects: Inherent flaws in the product’s blueprint or structure. 
• Manufacturing Defects: Erosion that occurs during the actual production or assembly process. 
• Failure to Warn: Missing or inadequate safety instructions or necessary warnings about the product’s use or potential dangers. 

 When a defective product causes an injury, you can pursue a product liability claim. It should be noted that the location of the accident doesn’t prevent you from pursuing a claim. Therefore, if you’ve been injured by a defective product at home, you can seek compensation for your losses. 

Who Can Be Held Liable? 

Determining liability for a product’s defect can be challenging, as multiple parties in the supply chain may be responsible. While you may assume it simply falls on the manufacturer of the product, liability can extend to other parties, including: 

• The Distributor: A company that acts as an intermediary, transporting the product from the manufacturer to a retailer or wholesaler. 
• A Wholesaler: A business that purchases large quantities of goods from distributors or manufacturers and sells them in smaller batches to retailers. 
• A Retailer or Seller: The party that sold the product to the consumer (a store or an online vendor). 
• A Contractor: In some cases, parties that perform services related to the product, such as installing a defective component, may be held liable if their faulty services contributed to the harm. 

Does It Matter If You Misused the Product?

While the misuse of a product can negatively impact a product liability claim, it doesn’t automatically prevent recovery. New Jersey courts often distinguish between reasonable and unreasonable use. For instance, if the misuse was minor, foreseeable, or deemed “reasonable” under the circumstances, the claim may still be covered. Conversely, a use of the product that was entirely unforeseeable or unreasonable may hinder your ability to recover compensation. The way the product was used is a significant factor that courts will scrutinize when determining liability. 

At Lerner, Piermont, Riverol & Lawlor, P.A., we are prepared to help you pursue fair compensation for your losses. Our legal team will work tirelessly to hold those responsible for your injuries accountable for their negligence. Connect with our firm today to schedule a consultation.