Who’s Responsible when Defective Products Cause Injuries?
When you use a product, you expect it to do its job, and when it doesn’t, it can cause serious injuries. But who do you file an injury claim against when you have been injured by a defective product?
Finding the proper channels can be confusing and difficult. With the right help, however, you can get back to the life you once had. Product liability law can be complicated, but when you are injured by a defective item, you deserve compensation from the liable party.
Who Is Responsible?
Responsible parties can be found at any point of the manufacturing and distribution chain. When dealing with a case of product liability, the fault for your claim mainly depends on who was aware of or caused the defect during the assembly process.
As such, the possibilities for fault can be confusing and could lead to multiple defendants. The manufacturer itself could be at fault, as well as the manufacturer of the individual parts, the person who installs or assembles the product, the wholesaler, or the retail store where the product was purchased.
Finding fault in your product liability case can be difficult, but it’s important to make sure you have the correct defendant. When defective products cause injuries, getting the settlement you need to help with your damages is important. A consultation with an attorney can help you untangle fault and get your claim in order.
Illinois Fault Laws and Product Liability
Illinois’ negligence laws can also have a major impact on your case. In Illinois, you can also expect to see “strict liability” laws affect your claim.
“Strict liability” is a type of negligence law that means that—even if you were negligent in your use of the product—you are not at fault for the defective product. In these cases, the defendant who manufactured or sold the item is the one expected to pay damages, depending on who is found negligent.
The statute of limitations for product liability, however, can affect your case. In Illinois, you have two years from the time of the discovery of the defect, or within twelve years of the first time it was sold, delivered, or otherwise provided for the customer. Proving the cause and observing the deadline for your claim can be vital to getting the settlement you need.
Help with Product Liability
If you believe you have a case involving a defective product, don’t hesitate to contact us. The lawyers at Mahoney & Mahoney, LLC can help you navigate a product liability claim and get your life back on track.
Our team can help with any questions or concerns you might have about your claim, as well. We offer free, no-strings-attached consultations for clients. If you need help with your claim, simply call us at 815-656-4600 or fill out our online form at the bottom of this page.
