Product Liability
When a defective product causes injury, the companies that designed, made, or sold it can be held responsible. These cases require careful investigation and experienced experts.
What to do after
- Get medical care for your injuries.
- Keep the product, its packaging, receipts, and instructions. Do not return it or throw it away.
- Photograph the product and the scene where you were hurt.
- Write down the brand, model, and serial number if available.
- Call us before contacting the manufacturer or seller.
We help you get the care you need
Many of our clients do not know where to turn after an injury, or how they will pay for treatment. Our team helps connect you with experienced doctors, specialists, and physical therapists, and works with your providers so you can focus on your recovery. Clients can be seen with no upfront costs.
How California law applies
Strict liability
In California, manufacturers and sellers can be held strictly liable for injuries caused by a defective product, without proving they were careless.
Three kinds of defects
A product may be defective in its design, in how it was manufactured, or because it lacked adequate warnings or instructions.
Everyone in the chain
The manufacturer, parts makers, distributors, and retailers may all be responsible.
Keep the evidence
The product itself is usually the most important evidence. Preserving it is critical.
What you may be able to recover
- Past and future medical bills
- Lost wages and lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Scarring, disfigurement, or disability
- Property damage and out-of-pocket costs
Common questions
Do I have to prove the company was careless?
Not always. Under strict liability, it is generally enough to show the product was defective and the defect caused your injury.
The product was recalled after I was hurt. Does that help?
A recall can be helpful evidence, though each case depends on its facts.
Can I still file if I no longer have the product?
Possibly, but it is harder. If you still have it, keep it in a safe place and do not alter it.
This page provides general information about California law, not legal advice. Every case is different. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.