Washington DC Injury Lawyer Blog
After a person encounters a defective or dangerous product, they may suffer serious physical injuries, property damage, and psychological trauma. The long-standing effects of these accidents may result in significant medical expenses, lost wages, and similar financial difficulties. Those who suffer injuries because of a defective product should contact a Washington, D.C. product liability attorney to discuss their rights and remedies.
What Is Product Liability?
Product liability broadly refers to the legal responsibility of those that are in the chain of design, production, or distribution of a product. While most Washington, D.C. product liability claims fall under the theory of strict liability, some involve general negligence theories and breach of warranty claims. Negligence cases usually involve allegations of a product’s defective design, manufacturing defect, or failure to warn. In contrast, strict liability claims do not require a plaintiff to establish that a manufacturer or seller was negligent. Instead, these claims hinge on the unreasonably dangerous or defective nature of the products. Proving an item was “unreasonably dangerous” requires a thorough and nuanced understanding of complex product liability laws.
For instance, a recent appellate court opinion addressed whether a plaintiff presented legally sufficient evidence to support their design defect claim. The case arose after an HVAC technician purchased an installed air conditioning unit compressor that became overheated and ignited the technician in flames. The technician filed a lawsuit against the product manufacturer, arguing that the terminal they used in the unit was unreasonably dangerous. In support of this claim, he asserted that parts manufacturers made two parts for the same cost, but the older design was more prone to failure. The technician claimed that the company’s decision to use the older design created an unreasonably dangerous product. A jury found in favor of the plaintiff, and after analyzing a series of complex evidentiary and legal arguments, the court ultimately affirmed the lower court’s ruling in favor of the plaintiff.As the above case illustrates, these cases require that plaintiffs present a legally sound and compelling case.
How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help Those Injured By an Unreasonable Dangerous Product?
An attorney can assist a plaintiff in convincing the court or jury that a product was dangerous or defective and caused the victim’s damages. Further, an attorney can present causation evidence and help an injury victim obtain the full amount of compensation they need to fully cover their injuries. It is important that injury victims understand that although having the product is a crucial piece of evidence, a case can still proceed with the product.
Have You Suffered Injuries Because of a Defective Product?
If a defective or dangerous product hurt you or someone you love, contact the Washington, D.C. product liability attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen. The attorneys at our law firm have the unique skills, resources, and experience that these complex cases require. We handle various Washington, D.C. personal injury cases, including those involving motor vehicle accidents, product liability, premises liability, wrongful death, and medical malpractice. We can help you develop the best strategy and legal theory to recover compensation for your losses. Contact our office at 800-654-1949 to schedule your free initial consultation with an attorney.