- HACKETT LAW
Product Liability Attorney in California
Legal Support When Defective Products Cause Serious Harm
Consumers should be able to trust that the products they purchase are safe when used as intended. Unfortunately, defective or dangerous products reach the market more often than most people realize—causing severe injuries, permanent disabilities, and even wrongful death.
If you or a loved one were harmed by a faulty product, an experienced product liability attorney in California can help you pursue justice and fair compensation under California’s strict liability laws.
Understanding Product Liability in California
Product liability refers to the legal responsibility of manufacturers, distributors, and retailers when a defective product causes harm. In California, victims can seek compensation even without proving negligence, thanks to the doctrine of strict liability.
This rule ensures that consumers can hold companies accountable without the difficult burden of proving intent or recklessness. For additional information, you can review guidance from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
The Three Main Types of Product Defects
Not all product defects are the same. Courts typically recognize three primary categories:
Design Defect – The product is inherently dangerous due to its design, even when manufactured correctly.
Example: a vehicle designed with a fuel tank that explodes on impact.Manufacturing Defect – The product was properly designed but became dangerous because of a production error.
Example: a batch of medication contaminated during packaging.Marketing Defect (Failure to Warn) – The product lacks sufficient warnings, instructions, or labeling to inform consumers about potential risks.
Example: a chemical cleaner without labels about toxic fumes.
Injuries Caused by Dangerous Products
The consequences of defective products can be life-altering. Victims often face:
Burns, lacerations, or electrocution
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord damage
Internal organ injuries
Amputations or disfigurement
Birth defects from unsafe drugs or chemicals
Because these injuries may require long-term care, victims often face overwhelming financial and emotional burdens.
Proving a Product Liability Attorney Claim
To succeed in a product liability claim, a plaintiff typically needs to establish that:
The product was defective.
The defect existed before the product left the manufacturer or seller.
The defect directly caused injury.
The product was used as intended—or in a reasonably foreseeable way.
Strong evidence strengthens your case. Medical records, expert testimony, proof of purchase, and even the defective product itself can all serve as critical evidence.
Common Examples of Product Liability Cases
These cases often involve a wide range of consumer goods, including:
Medical Devices – such as pacemakers, hip implants, or surgical mesh that fail or malfunction.
Household Appliances – electrical defects that cause shocks, burns, or fires.
Automotive Defects – tire blowouts, brake failures, or faulty airbags.
Children’s Toys and Furniture – choking hazards, flammable materials, or unstable designs.
Pharmaceuticals – undisclosed side effects or mislabeled medications.
Food Products – contaminated or improperly labeled items that cause illness.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Unlike standard personal injury cases, product liability claims may involve several defendants within the supply chain. These may include:
Product designers and manufacturers
Distributors and wholesalers
Retailers who sold the product
Contractors responsible for improper installation
By identifying all liable parties, you maximize the chances of securing fair compensation.
Damages Available to Victims
Victims of defective products may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical expenses, both immediate and long-term
Lost wages or diminished earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Property damage
In particularly reckless cases, courts may also award punitive damages to deter similar conduct in the future.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Product liability cases are complex. Large corporations and their insurers often use aggressive tactics to limit payouts. A skilled California product liability attorney can:
Investigate the defect and preserve crucial evidence
Work with product engineers and safety experts
Negotiate effectively with insurance companies
File a lawsuit and represent you in court if necessary
Without experienced representation, victims risk receiving far less compensation than they need—or losing their case entirely.
External Resources for Product Safety and Recalls
Stay informed about dangerous products and recalls by visiting:
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – Recalls
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – Vehicle Recalls
These resources can help you identify risks, report unsafe products, and take preventative measures to protect your family.
Protecting Your Rights as a Consumer
Consumers deserve safe products. When companies fail to meet safety standards, the law provides a path for justice. If you or a loved one suffered harm due to a defective product, taking legal action not only protects your rights but also helps prevent future injuries by holding negligent corporations accountable.