When a defective product causes an injury, the impact can extend far beyond the immediate harm as medical bills begin to pile up, wages are lost, and everyday life is disrupted. Here at Lerner, Piermont, Riverol & Lawlor, P.A., our Jersey City product liability lawyers are dedicated to holding negligent product designers and manufacturers accountable. If you believe you have a valid claim and wish to speak with a seasoned personal injury attorney, simply contact our legal team today. We’re here to fight for the full and fair compensation to which you are entitled.
Commonly Defective Products
Defective products appear in many industries, and some are more likely than others to cause significant harm. Below are some of the most frequent categories of dangerous products that have led to product liability claims:
- Motor vehicles and auto parts
- Children’s toys and products
- Medical devices and implants
- Pharmaceutical drugs
- Household appliances and electronics
- Industrial machinery and tools
- Food and beverages
- Recreational equipment
Types of Defective Product Claims
New Jersey recognizes three main categories of product liability claims, which are as follows:
- Design defects: A design defect exists when a product is inherently unsafe even if it was manufactured exactly as intended. If the blueprint of the product creates an unreasonable risk of injury, the manufacturer can be held responsible. A ladder that is structurally unstable or a vehicle with a high rollover tendency are clear examples of design defects.
- Manufacturer defects: These defects occur when a product becomes dangerous because of an error in the production process. For example, a batch of tires made with weak rubber compounds that break down too quickly would likely fall into this category. Even if a product’s overall design is safe, a mistake on the assembly line or during quality control can quickly render it unsafe.
- Failure to warn: Some products are dangerous only when used improperly or without specific safety precautions. Manufacturers and distributors are legally required to provide clear instructions and warnings to prevent these injuries. If a product lacks proper warnings and consumers are injured as a result, they may have a valid product liability claim.
What to Do After Being Harmed By a Defective Product
If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product, your actions in the hours and days following the incident can significantly affect your claim. Some of the most important steps you should take are as follows:
- Seek immediate medical attention, and call 911 if needed.
- Preserve the product, even if you feel tempted to throw it away. The defective product is the most critical piece of evidence in your case. Do not alter or attempt to repair it. Instead, store it in a safe place.
- Keep all packaging, manuals, and receipts. These documents will help establish when and where you purchased the product as well as whether warnings or instructions were inadequate or absent.
- Document your injuries and losses by taking photos of your injuries, the product itself, and any property damage. Keep track of your medical bills, missed work, and all other related expenses.
- Do not give any statements to manufacturers or insurers about your incident.
- Hire a product liability attorney who can help you fight for the full and fair compensation to which you are entitled. Ensure you do so within the state’s statute of limitations, which is typically two years.
Contact Our Hudson County, NJ Product Liability Lawyers
If you’ve been harmed by a defective product, our product liability lawyers stand ready to fight for the compensation you deserve and need to heal. Don’t wait. Contact Lerner, Piermont, Riverol & Lawler, P.A. for a free initial consultation today.
