Consumers generally expect products to be safe and effective. Unfortunately, product defects are relatively common. Companies can put consumers at risk of injury or worse by failing to invest properly in product development or in quality control at a production facility.
Thousands of dangerous and defective products reach store shelves every year, and consumers sometimes end up harmed. They may then need to consider a product defect lawsuit. Litigation requires an actionable situation and verifiable losses in a product defect scenario.
What losses can people try to recoup through civil action?
1. Property damage losses
Frequently, product defects lead to products suddenly failing. The failed product can then damage other assets. For example, defective e-bike batteries have caused devastating house fires. Defective products could also cause car crashes. Any verifiable property damage could contribute to the value of a lawsuit.
2. Medical expenses
Product defects frequently lead to consumer injuries. Burns, lacerations, broken bones and worse could all be possible when a product suddenly fails. Those affected by a dangerous product could potentially request compensation for their medical bills and estimated future medical expenses.
3. Lost wages
Serious injuries can force injured people to take time away from work. Parents may also require leave to provide support for injured children. In some cases, injuries are severe enough to force people to change careers or stop working completely.
Estimating the economic impact of a product defect is of the utmost importance for those contemplating a lawsuit. An attorney can provide objective insight into recoverable losses.