Injured by a Defective Product in Fort Wayne? Claim the Compensation You Deserve

Understanding the types of damages that can be recovered is the first step toward claiming what you rightfully deserve. These damages, assessed with the help of your lawyer, represent the physical, emotional, and financial hardships that victims endure.

Medical Expenses

This is often the most immediate and quantifiable damage. It covers everything from emergency room fees to long-term rehabilitation costs. For a family, this could mean the difference between a swift recovery and a prolonged struggle with mounting medical bills.

Lost wages and earning capacity

When a defective product causes injury, the time away from work can lead to lost wages. For some, it may even impact their ability to earn in the future. This aspect of damages ensures that victims do not suffer financially for circumstances beyond their control.

Pain and Suffering

This non-economic damage is subjective but significant as it acknowledges the physical pain and emotional trauma that come with injuries.

Punitive Damages

In cases where the defendant’s actions were particularly reckless or egregious, punitive damages might be awarded. These are not just about compensation but about sending a clear message to manufacturers and distributors that negligence is unacceptable in our community.

What Do You Have to Prove in a Product Liability Case?

According to Indiana’s Product Liability Laws, negligence applies to all cases brought by a user or consumer against a manufacturer or seller for physical harm caused by a product, regardless of the legal theory upon which the action is brought.

The role of your lawyer here is to identify who was responsible for the defective product that caused injuries, considering:

  • Proof of defect: The cornerstone of any product liability case is proving that the product was inherently defective. This could be due to a flaw in design, a failure during manufacturing, or inadequate instructions and warnings.
  • Causation: It’s not enough to show that the product was defective; the injury must be directly linked to the defect. This means demonstrating that the harm was a direct result of the product’s failure and not due to external factors.
  • Damages: Documenting the actual damages suffered is crucial. This goes beyond the physical injuries to include emotional and financial repercussions.

According to the specific circumstances of your case, our team in Fort Wayne will recommend the best course of action possible to hold the negligent accountable.

Common Injuries Sustained in Product Liability Claims

With decades of experience serving injured people in Indiana, we have seen how negligence manifests in many different ways, often causing catastrophic injuries. These are some of the most common injuries we help victims to claim for in this type of cases:

  • Severe burns: Often resulting from electrical malfunctions or chemical leaks in products.
  • Broken bones and fractures: Caused by the failure of safety equipment or structural defects in furniture and other household items.
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Can occur often in vehicle-related accidents due to defective auto parts.
  • Spinal cord injuries: Resulting from falls or accidents involving faulty products.
  • Lacerations and amputations: Caused by defective machinery or tools with inadequate safety features.
  • Choking hazards: Particularly in cases involving children’s toys or products with small, detachable parts.
  • Poisoning: Due to toxic substances in consumer products or improper labeling.
  • Respiratory issues: Triggered by exposure to harmful materials or chemicals in products.
  • Electrical shocks: From defective electronic devices or improperly insulated wiring.

You may have been affected by a defective component in your vehicle, causing a car accident, or been harmed while using a dangerous tool. But regardless of the type of accident, our team is here to provide legal advice on how to claim the compensation you need to recover from your injuries and cover the damages.

The Process of Filing a Product Liability Lawsuit

The journey to justice in a product liability case in Fort Wayne involves several critical steps:

  1. Consultation with a lawyer: The first step is to consult with a knowledgeable product liability lawyer at Christie Farrell & Lee Bell who can assess the merits of your case.
  2. Gathering evidence: This involves collecting all relevant evidence, such as the defective product, medical records, and witness statements.
  3. Filing the complaint: Your lawyer will help draft and file a legal complaint against the manufacturer or distributor, outlining the specifics of your case.
  4. The discovery phase: Both parties exchange information and gather further evidence, often involving expert testimonies.
  5. Negotiation and settlement: Many cases are settled out of court. Your lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to reach a fair settlement.

If a settlement isn’t reached, we are ready to take your case to trial, where a judge or jury will make the final decision.

Filing a Complaint and Initiating the Lawsuit

Filing a complaint is the formal declaration of your intent to seek justice, and the most common way to solve a product liability case in Indiana.

It involves detailing the nature of the product defect, the injuries sustained, and the compensation sought. This document sets the legal wheels in motion and marks the beginning of your fight for rightful compensation.

Why You Need a Fort Wayne Product Liability Lawyer

The complexities of product liability cases in Fort Wayne demand not just legal expertise, but a lawyer who understands the local landscape of industries and consumer products. Our team brings:

  • Expertise in Indiana product liability law: Knowledge of state-specific laws and regulations is crucial for navigating these cases.
  • Experience with local industries: Understanding the complexities of Fort Wayne’s diverse manufacturing sector can be pivotal in building a strong case.
  • Negotiation skills: Skilled in negotiating with large corporations and insurance companies to secure fair compensation.
  • Trial: Prepared to take your case to trial if necessary, ensuring that your rights are vigorously defended.

For personalized legal assistance and to begin your journey towards justice, reach out to us at contact us and claim for your free initial consultation to evaluate your case.