Injured Due to a Defective Product? Our Muncie Product Liability Lawyers Can Help

Product liability law regulates cases involving products that are expected to be safe for consumers but turn out to be hazardous due to diverse defects. If you’re facing serious injuries and financial burdens due to a product defect, our Muncie personal injury lawyers can assist you by:

  1. Investigating the defective product: Thoroughly examining the product to determine the exact nature of the defect.
  2. Gathering evidence: Collecting all necessary documentation and expert testimonies to build a strong case.
  3. Negotiating with manufacturers and insurance companies: Ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve without the stress of dealing with insurers and corporations directly.

Our team is dedicated to providing the comprehensive assistance you need. At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we’ll work closely with you to ensure manufacturers are held accountable for their negligence and secure the maximum compensation for your injuries.

Understanding What Constitutes a Product Liability Case in Indiana

When a defective product causes harm to a consumer, product liability law in Indiana refers to the legal responsibility of manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to ensure their products are safe, adequately tested, and properly labeled, holding them accountable for any injuries or damages resulting from their products.

Product liability cases typically arise from three primary types of defects:

  • Design defects: Flaws in the original design that make the product inherently unsafe.
  • Manufacturing defects: Errors during production that result in unsafe products.
  • Warning defects: Failure to provide adequate warnings or instructions about the product’s use.

These defects can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities, so, if you believe a defective product caused harm, consulting with a product liability lawyer is a critical first step. Remember that there is a statute of limitations in Muncie for filing these claims (as per Indiana Code § 34-20-3-1 – two years from the date of the accident), and timely action is essential.

Common Types of Product Liability Cases

Each year, nearly 12.7 million people are treated in emergency departments for injuries resulting from consumer products in the United States, according to the National Safety Council. Among these product liability cases, the most common defective products causing injuries include:

  • Defective automotive parts: Faulty brakes, tires, airbags, or other car components.
  • Dangerous pharmaceuticals: Medications with harmful side effects that aren’t adequately disclosed.
  • Faulty medical devices: Defective implants, surgical instruments, or other medical equipment that fail and cause injury (common in medical malpractice cases).
  • Unsafe children’s toys: Toys with sharp edges, choking hazards, or toxic materials.
  • Hazardous household appliances: Products that malfunction and cause fires, electrical shocks, or other injuries.

Who is Liable for a Defective Product?

According to Indiana Code § 34-20-2-1, anyone who sells or leases a product in a defective condition and unreasonably dangerous can be held liable for any resulting injuries. Some of the potentially liable parties include:

  • Manufacturers: Companies that design, produce, and distribute the product.
  • Distributors: Companies that transport and distribute the product to retailers.
  • Retailers: Stores that sell the product directly to consumers.
  • Suppliers: Providers of raw materials or components to manufacturers.

To determine the best course of action for your case, first, we need to clearly establish which parties are legally responsible for compensating you. Then, our experienced team of lawyers will work to build a compelling case that proves their fault.

Types of Damages You Can Claim in a Product Liability Case in Muncie

Victims of defective products can claim various types of damages to cover the costs associated with injuries and other losses, such as:

  • Medical expenses: Costs for treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
  • Lost wages: Compensation for time off work, including future lost earnings if the injury results in long-term disability.
  • Pain and suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
  • Property damage: Reimbursement for any property damaged by the defective product.
  • Punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence, additional damages to punish the wrongdoer.

To calculate your damages, our lawyers at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell analyze all related expenses and the injury’s impacts on your life. Then, we aggressively negotiate with opposing parties, accounting for all your losses and aiming to secure the maximum compensation possible for your product liability claim.

Common Injuries Sustained from Defective Products

We have seen how defective products can cause a wide range of damages, from minor cuts and bruises to severe, catastrophic injuries. The most common include:

  • Burns
  • Fractures and broken bones
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Internal injuries
  • Lacerations and cuts
  • Poisoning and chemical burns

After being injured due to a defective product, make sure you seek immediate medical attention and consider legal action to avoid shouldering the costs of someone else’s negligence.

Talk to a Product Liability Lawyer in Muncie Today – Free Initial Consultation Available at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell

From the initial case investigation to the final resolution, our experienced product liability lawyers in Muncie are here to help you navigate Indiana’s legal system. With decades of experience and a successful track record of securing multi-million dollar settlements, the attorneys at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell are here to help.

Don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule a free consultation and let us help you navigate the journey towards justice and compensation.