Consumers making buying decisions generally trust products to be reasonably safe and reliable. Typically, manufacturers do have an obligation to ensure that products work as advertised and that they are safe for consumers to use. Rigorous design testing and quality control measures are typically necessary to ensure that products are safe for the public. Unfortunately, thousands of people suffer financial setbacks every year because of defective products.
What financial losses are common among those who purchase defective products?
1. Property damage losses
Frequently, defective products cause significant property damage. For example, e-bikes and electric scooters with faulty wiring or cheap batteries could catch fire while charging. They could then damage other vehicles or cause the total loss of a residence and the possessions inside it.
2. Medical expenses
When products fail during use, they can easily injure consumers. For example, a malfunctioning power tool could shock or burn the user. Broken bones, deep lacerations and a variety of other injuries may require professional medical intervention.
3. Lost wages
Individuals seeking medical treatment, dealing with the aftermath of the house fire or supporting an injured child may have to take unpaid leave from work. They could lose out on weeks of income. In scenarios where they develop permanent injuries, they may experience a lifetime of reduced earning potential.
Holding companies accountable can be a complex process, and injured consumers often require guidance as they seek to assert their rights. That’s okay. A successful product defect lawsuit brought against a manufacturer can compensate those harmed by malfunctioning or dangerous products. The courts can award damages based on the current and likely future losses caused by dangerous products.
