Products Liability

At Hernandez Martinez, LLC, we represent individuals who have been harmed by dangerous or defective products. Whether it’s a faulty appliance, a harmful medication, or a vehicle with critical safety issues, defective products can cause severe injuries or even death. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of products liability law and fight to hold manufacturers, distributors, and retailers accountable for the harm caused by their products. We are dedicated to securing justice and compensation for our clients.

Understanding Products Liability

Products liability law holds manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and retailers responsible for placing dangerous or defective products into the hands of consumers. When a product causes harm, several parties along the supply chain may be held liable for the damages. Our attorneys work diligently to identify the responsible parties and pursue the compensation you deserve. There are three main types of product defects that may give rise to a products liability claim:

Design Defects

A design defect occurs when the actual design of the product is inherently dangerous or flawed, even before it is manufactured. This means that every product in that line is potentially hazardous. A common example would be a car model that has an unreasonably high risk of rolling over, regardless of how carefully it is built. We work with experts to analyze the design and prove that it posed an unreasonable danger to consumers.

Manufacturing Defects

Manufacturing defects occur when something goes wrong during the production or assembly of a product. Even if the design is safe, errors in the manufacturing process can make the product dangerous. Examples include a batch of medication that becomes contaminated or a vehicle with faulty brakes due to poor manufacturing. These defects can cause serious injuries or fatalities, and our attorneys are prepared to hold manufacturers accountable for these failures.

Failure to Warn or Marketing Defects

Failure to provide adequate warnings or instructions about a product’s risks can lead to injuries. Even a well-designed and properly manufactured product can be dangerous if consumers are not properly informed of its hazards. This might include a medication that doesn’t include sufficient warnings about side effects or a power tool that doesn’t explain proper safety precautions. Our firm investigates these failures to warn and works to secure compensation for victims who were injured as a result.

Common Types of Products Liability Cases

Products liability cases can arise from a wide range of defective or dangerous products. At Hernandez Martinez, LLC, we handle cases involving:

Defective Medications and Medical Devices

Pharmaceutical companies and medical device manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure that their products are safe for use. When medications or medical devices cause harmful side effects, injuries, or deaths due to defects, inadequate testing, or lack of proper warnings, these companies can be held liable. We represent clients harmed by defective medications, faulty medical implants, and other medical products that caused injury.

Dangerous Consumer Products

Everyday products, from household appliances to children’s toys, can pose serious risks if they are defectively designed or manufactured. Whether it’s a malfunctioning kitchen appliance that causes burns or a child’s toy with choking hazards, dangerous consumer products can lead to significant injuries. Our firm helps clients seek justice and compensation for injuries caused by such products.

Automotive Defects

Defective vehicles or vehicle parts, such as faulty airbags, tires prone to blowouts, or defective brakes, can cause devastating accidents. Automotive defects often lead to large-scale recalls, but even if your vehicle was not recalled, you may still have a valid claim. Our team is experienced in handling complex automotive defect cases, holding manufacturers accountable for failing to ensure the safety of their vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is a products liability lawsuit?

A products liability lawsuit is a legal claim brought by an individual who has been injured by a defective product. The lawsuit seeks to hold the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer responsible for the harm caused by the product.

2. How do I know if I have a products liability claim?

If you were injured by a product that was defective in its design, manufacturing, or warnings, you may have a products liability claim. Contact our firm to discuss the specifics of your case and determine your legal options.

3. Who can be held responsible in a products liability case?

In a products liability case, multiple parties may be held responsible, including the product’s manufacturer, distributor, and retailer. Our attorneys will investigate your case to identify all potentially liable parties.

4. How long do I have to file a products liability claim?

The statute of limitations for products liability cases varies by state, but in most cases, you have two to three years from the date of your injury to file a claim. It’s important to consult an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines.

5. What types of damages can I recover in a products liability case?

You may be entitled to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses related to your injury. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if the defendant’s conduct was especially egregious.

6. How long does it take to resolve a products liability case?

The timeline for resolving a products liability case depends on the complexity of the case and whether a settlement can be reached. While some cases may settle in a few months, others may take longer, especially if the case goes to trial.

7. Do I need to keep the product that caused my injury?

Yes, if possible, it’s important to keep the product that caused your injury as evidence. Our attorneys will need to examine the product to determine how it was defective and how it caused your injury.

8. Do I need to pay legal fees upfront?

No, at Hernandez Martinez, LLC, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any legal fees unless we win your case. This allows you to pursue justice without worrying about upfront costs.