Columbia Defective Products Lawyer
Common everyday items may contain hidden dangers that can cause severe injuries to yourself or your family members. Electrical shocks, deep cuts, explosions, and burns are just a few of the many ways in which consumer products have hurt individuals. These injuries can cause people a considerable amount of pain and suffering while also requiring extensive medical treatment and long recovery periods.
A Columbia defective products lawyer is available to assist you and your family following a product-related injury. With a skilled attorney at your side ready to help, you may discover that you are eligible to sue the product’s manufacturer or others in the supply chain and obtain compensation for any expenses or losses you experienced.
How Defective Products Reach Consumers
Consumer products begin as ideas drawn up by design teams that often work for manufacturers. From an idea board to a store shelf, products can develop one or more defects along the way. These include:
- Defects in the product’s design, which cause all products in a product line or every item produced according to that design to share a common mistake
- Defects in the manufacturing process, which cause only one or a particular batch of product to have the same error
- Defects in labeling, where the product(s) do not have labels on the packaging warning consumers of the dangerous properties of the product or any special instructions consumers may need to know to safely use the product
In addition, products can become broken or defective during shipping or by being improperly assembled or stored at the retail establishment. Unless a defect is apparent, many consumers may purchase defective products without realizing there is something wrong about the product. These injury victims’ first realization that the product they are using is defective may come through an injury accident.
Prevailing in a Lawsuit Involving Defective Products
A lawsuit alleging that a defective product caused a plaintiff’s injury requires the injured plaintiff to prove four facts or propositions. If a plaintiff can show that each proposition is more likely than not true, then the plaintiff may be eligible to receive financial compensation. Those four propositions are:
- A manufacturer’s product contained one or more defects that made the product unsafe for use by consumers
- These defects existed because the manufacturer did not take reasonable precautions to either fix the flaws or adequately warn consumers about them
- One or more of these defects caused injury to the plaintiff
- A specific amount of damages can compensate for the injury and accompanying bills and expenses that the plaintiff suffered
The plaintiff proves each of these propositions through the use of witness testimony and evidence. Witness testimony might include individuals who helped design or market the product, other injured customers, and the plaintiff’s testimony. Evidence includes reports, blueprints, internal communications within the manufacturer’s offices, and other records. Plaintiffs are often able to assemble these witnesses and evidence much easier with assistance from an attorney who handles defective product cases.
What are Some Examples of Defective Products in Columbia, Mo.?
There are quite a few different examples of defective products in Columbia, Mo. Some of these include automobiles, toys, food, and more. Let’s check this out in more detail below.
Automobiles
Various types of car defects can arise, such as unsafe tires, cars with design flaws causing them to flip over, and even defective seatbelts and airbags that could fail in the event of an accident.
Contaminated Food
Contaminated food is another type of defective product that could hit the shelves in your local supermarket. This food could cause consumers to get sick. This is due to a number of different issues, such as a lack of adherence to regulations, that could ultimately lead to unsanitary environments.
Children’s Toys
There could be toys manufactured with unsafe materials, or have small pieces that could pose a choking hazard.
Car Seats
Children’s car seats are designed to keep children safe in the event of a crash. If these mechanisms fail, it could cause catastrophic injuries.
Furniture
Unstable furniture could topple over and harm your child or even in some cases, adults as well.
If you or a loved one have been a victim of a defective product, you could be eligible for compensation. Get in touch with our Columbia Mo. defective products lawyers for a consultation, and to begin your case.
How Long Do I Have to File My Defective Products Case in Missouri?
In Missouri, you have five years until the date of the incident to file suit. However, it is critical to file as soon as possible so your attorney has enough time to file your case, gather evidence, interview eyewitnesses, and consult experts in the industry to put together a compelling case. As your Columbia, Mo. defective products lawyer, we are here for you every step of the way. We have the expertise to get you the compensation that you deserve.
Why Hire a Columbia, Mo. Defective Products Lawyer?
There are many reasons to hire a Columbia, Mo. defective products attorney. One of the main reasons to consult a legal professional is that your attorney will be adept at all aspects of the law, ensuring that we cover all of our bases when filing your claim. Furthermore, we are skilled negotiators and can negotiate a higher amount for your claim with insurance adjusters. Adjusters are trained to provide you with the lowest amount possible and hope that you take the lowball offer. Furthermore, if we cannot settle your case, we will take your case to court in the front of the judge, and fight for you, every step of the way.
Speak to a Columbia, Mo. Defective Products Attorney Today!
Missouri has adopted a five-year statute of limitations for product liability cases. After suffering harm from a defective product, you or your loved one will generally have just five years to take legal action and file a claim for compensation.
A skilled Columbia defective products lawyer can assist you throughout the claims process and help you file and prosecute your compensation lawsuit. To get started on your case, be sure to schedule a consultation today.
Columbia Mo. Defective Products Lawyer FAQ
What types of defective product cases does a lawyer in Columbia, MO handle?
Defective product cases can involve a wide range of products, including but not limited to electronics, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, toys, household appliances, and vehicles. Your lawyer will have experience dealing with various product liability issues, such as design defects, manufacturing defects, and failure to provide adequate warnings or instructions.
How do I know if I have a valid defective product claim in Columbia, MO?
To determine the validity of your claim, consider if the product in question caused you harm due to a defect, and if the defect was the direct cause of your injuries or damages. If you believe negligence on the part of the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer played a role, consulting with a defective products lawyer can help assess the strength of your case.
What compensation can I seek in a defective product case in Columbia, MO?
Compensation in a defective product case may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other related costs. A skilled lawyer will help you identify the types of damages applicable to your situation and work to secure the maximum compensation possible.
How much does it cost to hire a defective products lawyer in Columbia, MO?
Many defective products lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. This fee is typically a percentage of the compensation awarded. Consult with potential lawyers to discuss their fee structure and any additional costs associated with your case.
How long do I have to file a defective product claim in Columbia, MO?
The time limit, or statute of limitations, for filing a defective product claim in Columbia, MO, can vary. It is crucial to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure compliance with the applicable deadlines, as waiting too long may result in the forfeiture of your right to pursue a claim.
How do I choose the right defective products lawyer in Columbia, MO for my case?
When selecting a lawyer, consider their experience in handling defective product cases, their track record of success, and their commitment to client communication. Reading reviews, seeking referrals, and scheduling initial consultations can also help you make an informed decision.