The Legal Ins and Outs of Product Liability: What to Do When You've Been Harmed
Linda Huang
Published May 4, 2024
Worry no more!
We're here to help you understand your rights and navigate the legal landscape of product liability in the United States.
Let's dive into what you need to know and where to turn for assistance if you've been harmed by a faulty product.
Understanding Product Liability
Product liability refers to the legal responsibility of manufacturers, distributors, and sellers for injuries caused by defective or dangerous products.
In the US, several laws and agencies exist to protect consumers and hold responsible parties accountable for their actions.
Governing Laws and Agencies
- Governing Law: The Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSA) sets safety standards for consumer products and empowers the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to enforce these regulations.
- Agency: Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
- Governing Law: The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) regulates the safety and labeling of food, drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices.
- Agency: Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- Governing Law: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) oversees vehicle safety standards and recalls.
- Agency: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
What to Do If You've Been Harmed?
If you've been injured by a defective product, here are some steps you can take to protect your rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should always come first. Seek medical treatment for your injuries as soon as possible.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep the defective product, packaging, receipts, and any documentation related to your injury. This evidence may be crucial in proving your case.
- Report the Incident: File a report with the appropriate agency, such as the CPSC or FDA, to alert them to the safety hazard and potentially trigger a product recall.
- Consult with Legal Counsel: Contact an experienced product liability attorney to discuss your options for seeking compensation for your injuries. They can help you navigate the legal process and pursue justice on your behalf.
Dealing with product-related injuries can be daunting, but you don't have to face it alone.
By understanding your rights and seeking assistance from the relevant agencies and legal professionals, you can hold accountable those responsible for putting dangerous products on the market.
Remember, your safety matters, and there are resources available to help you seek justice and recover from your injuries.
Related read: Protecting Yourself Against Consumer Fraud: Tips for Recognizing and Reporting Scams
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