If you or a loved one have suffered an injury due to a defective or unsafe product, you might be feeling overwhelmed and unsure about what to do next. The legal world can be complicated, and when you’re dealing with a personal injury, it can feel even more confusing. At times like this, it’s important to have someone who understands the emotional and physical toll you are facing. If you’re in need of a personal injury attorney, we’re here to help guide you through this difficult process. Our team at Princenthal, May & Wilson, LLC is compassionate and committed to ensuring that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
What Is Product Liability?
Product liability refers to a legal concept that holds manufacturers, distributors, and retailers responsible for putting defective or unsafe products into the hands of consumers. If a product is flawed in some way and causes harm to a person, the manufacturer or other parties in the chain of distribution can be held liable for the injury. These types of cases fall under personal injury law and are often more complex than typical personal injury claims. There are three main types of defects that can lead to a product liability case: manufacturing defects, design defects, and marketing defects.
Manufacturing defects occur when something goes wrong during the production of a product, making it unsafe. For example, a car part that was improperly made could cause a malfunction that leads to an accident. Design defects, on the other hand, happen when the product is poorly designed, even before it reaches the production stage. An example could be a children’s toy that contains small parts posing a choking hazard. Marketing defects are related to how a product is marketed, such as not providing proper warnings or instructions for safe use. Any of these defects can result in serious injuries, and understanding your rights as a consumer is critical.
How Does Product Liability Work in Georgia?
In Georgia, product liability cases are governed by both state and federal laws. If you’ve been injured by a product, you have the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. However, proving a product liability case is not always straightforward. To have a successful claim, you must be able to show that the product was defectively designed, manufactured, or marketed and that this defect directly caused your injury.
Adam Princenthal
Attorney At Law
David May
Attorney At Law
Matthew Wilson
Attorney At Law
One of the key factors in a product liability case is determining whether the product was defectively designed or made. In Georgia, a person who brings a product liability lawsuit must be able to show that the defect in question existed at the time the product was sold or when it left the manufacturer’s control. This is where the skill of an experienced attorney becomes invaluable. Navigating the legal process, gathering evidence, and building a strong case all require attention to detail and expertise.
Common Types of Injuries from Defective Products
Injuries caused by defective products can range from minor to severe, and in some cases, they can be life-threatening. Common types of injuries in product liability cases include burns, fractures, lacerations, broken bones, internal injuries, and even wrongful death. Defective medical devices, faulty vehicle parts, dangerous machinery, and unsafe household products have all been known to cause harm to consumers.
These injuries can result in significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Medical bills can pile up quickly, and time off work to recover can lead to lost wages. In addition to the direct consequences of the injury, victims may also face long-term effects, such as chronic pain, scarring, or disabilities that affect their daily life. The impact of a defective product is not just physical but can also be emotional, as you may feel frustrated and powerless.
After a car accident, I contacted David May at the Lagrange office. He, and his staff, helped me with medical advice and follow up doctors visits, along with dealing with my insurance and the insurance of the woman that hit me. I have been very pleased with the service I received from David May and the Lagrange staff. They are warm and open, always there to help with advice and answer questions.”
- Debau
I highly recommend Adam Princenthal .I was looking for someone with years of experience in personal injury.They needed to be knowledgeable, transparent and honest.I wanted to know I was dealing directly with the lawyer I hired.Adam Princenthal could answer all the difficult questions and phone calls were returned.Adam got the settlement I was looking for in a timely manner."
- Nancy K.
I am glad that I was referred to Princenthal & May. Matthew met with me and gained my trust with the case. I was never left in the dark on any matters, My phone calls were either answered or returned quickly. The office staff are very friendly as well. My case was settled, with both Matthew and Adam present. Both are very professional in their work.. They work for you !!!"
- Jacque Minor
Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Defective Product?
When it comes to product liability, several parties may be responsible for putting a dangerous or defective product into your hands. These parties can include the manufacturer of the product, the company that designed the product, and the retailer that sold it to you. In some cases, other parties in the supply chain, such as distributors, wholesalers, or even third-party contractors, can also be held accountable.
It’s important to note that in Georgia, product liability cases can be based on strict liability, meaning you don’t necessarily have to prove that the defendant was negligent. Instead, you must show that the product was defectively designed, manufactured, or marketed, and that this defect caused your injury. This makes it possible to hold companies accountable for unsafe products even if they did not act carelessly or intentionally.
Proving a Product Liability Case in Georgia
If you are considering filing a product liability lawsuit, it’s crucial to understand how the legal process works. A successful case requires gathering compelling evidence to show that the product in question was defectively designed, manufactured, or marketed. This can include things like product testing, witness testimony, opinions, and physical evidence from the product itself. The evidence must demonstrate that the defect directly caused your injury, which can sometimes be challenging to prove.
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How Long Will a Personal Injury Case Take?
In some cases, expert testimony may be required to explain the nature of the defect or how it led to the injury. Expert witnesses, such as engineers or medical professionals, can help provide clarity on complex issues and strengthen your case. Having an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side will ensure that you understand the necessary steps, from collecting evidence to dealing with insurance companies, and will help you navigate any challenges that arise.
Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer for Your Product Liability Case
Handling a product liability case without a lawyer is not advisable. These cases can be complicated, and the parties responsible for the defect often have large legal teams working to protect their interests. If you choose to go it alone, you risk losing the compensation you deserve or even having your case dismissed.
A personal injury lawyer who is familiar with product liability laws in Georgia can help you every step of the way. They can assess your case, help you understand your legal options, and fight for the compensation you deserve. The right attorney will be able to communicate with insurance companies, gather evidence, and negotiate on your behalf, all while ensuring that your rights are protected. They will also be your advocate in the courtroom if the case goes to trial, and they will work hard to ensure that you receive the best possible outcome.
The Importance of Acting Quickly
In Georgia, there is a statute of limitations for filing a product liability lawsuit. This means that there is a limited amount of time in which you can take legal action. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to file a claim. It’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure that you don’t miss any deadlines and that your case is given the attention it deserves.
If you have been injured by a defective product, don’t hesitate to seek legal help. At Princenthal, May & Wilson, LLC, we understand the stress and confusion that can come with a personal injury claim, and we are committed to helping you navigate the process. We believe that everyone deserves to be heard, and we will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you need to recover and move forward. Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you take the first step toward justice.
