Seattle Product Liability Attorneys

Types of Product Liability Cases

Product liability cases can generally be divided into three subcategories:

Design Defects

Design defect cases arise when a product has been manufactured according to specifications yet is still deemed dangerous due to a flaw in the design that makes the product inherently hazardous. For example, if a car company releases a vehicle with faulty brakes, it would constitute a design defect case. 

Manufacturing Defects

Manufacturing defects occur when a mistake made in the production process results in an unsafe outcome. A manufacturing defect could be something as simple as missing screws or bolts on furniture or something involving improperly implemented technology, such as miscalibrated airbags or faulty fuel systems in an automobile. 

Failure to Warn

Companies are required by law to provide adequate warning labels and instructions for customers so they can make an informed decision about whether or not to use the item. For example, if a food manufacturer fails to list all ingredients on their packaging, even though some may contain known allergens, they could face product liability lawsuits.

Are Product Liability Cases Difficult to Win?

Product liability cases can be difficult to win. You must demonstrate that the product was defective or inherently dangerous and that the defect caused your injury. In addition to proving causation, you must demonstrate that you took all reasonable steps in using and maintaining the product and adhering to any warnings provided by the manufacturer. 

Failure to do so could result in the court finding that you assumed an unreasonable risk, thus barring recovery.

Another issue encountered in product liability cases is determining fault. The defendant may try to shift blame onto other parties, such as suppliers, distributors, and retailers if those entities had some control over how the product was designed, manufactured, or marketed. At CZ in Washington, we are aware of the potential roadblocks in these cases. 

There are strategies our Seattle product liability lawyers can employ to fight them and faithfully present you as a law-abiding consumer injured due to the negligence of a product's design, manufacturing, or marketing team. 

Common Types of Defective Products

• Automotive parts: Auto parts can be defective in a variety of ways, including faulty design, manufacturing defects, or inadequate warnings and instructions. When these defects lead to an injury, the manufacturer may be held liable.
• Pharmaceutical drugs: Pharmaceutical products can be defective if they contain dangerous ingredients or fail to provide adequate warnings about potential side effects or interactions with other medications.
• Children's toys: Toy manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure their products are safe for use by children and meet all applicable safety standards. If a toy is found to be defective and causes an injury, the manufacturer may be held liable.
• Medical devices: Medical device manufacturers must ensure their products meet all applicable safety standards before releasing them on the market and provide adequate warnings about potential risks associated with using their products. 
• Household appliances: Household appliances such as microwaves, ovens, dishwashers, and refrigerators can also be subject to product liability claims if they are found to be defective or dangerous.
• Tools and machinery: Tools and machinery such as power saws, drills, lawnmowers, and other equipment, could have faulty wiring or design flaws that lead to fires or electric shocks, as well as inadequate warning labels. 
• Furniture: Furniture such as chairs, couches, beds, tables, etc., can also be subject to product liability claims if they are found to have design defects that make them unsafe for use by consumers (e.g., unstable chair legs).
• Sports equipment: Sports equipment such as helmets, shoulder pads, elbow pads, etc., can also be subject to product liability claims if they are found not provide adequate protection from injury during use. 
• Food products: Food products can also be subject to product liability claims if they contain hidden allergens (e.g., peanuts not listed on label) or otherwise cause physical harm due to contamination (e .g., Listeria contamination). 

How Long Do I Have to File a Defective Product Lawsuit?

Product liability cases in Washington can be complex and may involve lengthy legal processes. One important factor to consider when pursuing a product liability claim is the statute of limitations. As per state law, plaintiffs have three years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. This is why it is crucial to seek legal guidance promptly to ensure you don't miss the deadline. 

How Long Do Product Liability Cases Take to Resolve?

The length of time for a product liability claim to be resolved varies depending on the severity and complexity of the case. Generally, minor claims with straightforward evidence can take around six months to a year to settle. On the other hand, more complex cases involving multiple parties or extensive litigation may take up to several years before reaching a final resolution. 

Aside from understanding the legal complexities of any lawsuit, it is crucial to understand that a product liability case involves various stages of resolution. These include identifying potential defendants and their insurance companies, collecting evidence, conducting discovery, participating in depositions and hearings, negotiating settlements, and going to trial if necessary. 

It is also essential to consider that not all cases are concluded within a reasonable period due to numerous factors, such as limited resources or witnesses that cannot be located to provide relevant testimony. This can cause delays in proceedings and rack up costs associated with lengthy proceedings, which could add up quickly. 

At CZ in Washington, our priority is fighting for an agreeable resolution in terms of the compensation awarded and the time it takes to resolve your case. Our team will be at your side from the moment you file your lawsuit to the resolution of your case, providing guidance and advice wherever possible and never ceasing to fight for justice and fair compensation on your behalf.