Product Liability Lawyer in Virginia

Understanding Product Liability Laws in Virginia

When a defective product causes injury or harm, the manufacturer, distributor, or seller of the item may be held liable under product liability law. Throughout Virginia, victims of dangerous or defective products have the legal right to seek compensation for their injuries and losses. These cases can be intricate and technical, requiring a thorough understanding of state and federal regulations, as well as industry standards. Our Virginia product liability lawyers are committed to helping victims throughout this process and will fight tirelessly to help secure the fair compensation they deserve.

Types of Product Liability Claims

There are three main categories of product liability claims: design defects, manufacturing defects, and failure to warn.

Design Defects

Injuries can occur when a product's design is inherently dangerous, even when it is manufactured correctly. For example, a chair designed with an unstable base that easily tips over is inherently flawed and hazardous to users.

Manufacturing Defects

Accidents can happen when a product deviates from its intended design during production. For instance, a batch of pain medication could become contaminated with a harmful substance during manufacturing.

Failure to Warn

Also called marketing defects, these product liability cases arise when a product lacks proper warnings or instructions for safe use. A hair dye may fail to include adequate warnings about potential allergic reactions.

Common Types of Defective Products

Product liability cases can involve a variety of defective items, including:

Automobiles and auto parts, like faulty airbags and defective tires

Children's products, like unsafe cribs and choking hazards in toys

Household appliances, like exploding pressure cookers and faulty space heaters

Pharmaceuticals and medical devices, like those with dangerous side effects

Construction equipment and power tools, like faulty safety guards and electrical issues

Consumer electronics, like overheating batteries and fire hazards

This list is not exhaustive. Virtually any product can be the subject of a liability claim if it causes harm due to a defect.

Possible Injuries in Product Liability Cases

Defective products can cause a wide range of injuries, varying in severity. Some examples include:

Burns from malfunctioning electronics or appliances
Choking or suffocation from children's products
Cuts or lacerations from unprotected sharp edges or broken parts
Fractures or crush injuries from collapsing furniture or equipment
Poisoning from contaminated food or medications
Respiratory issues from toxic chemicals or fumes
Traumatic brain injuries from falling objects or improperly secured loads

Steps to Take If You Are Injured by a Defective Product

Follow these steps if you or a loved one has been hurt by a potentially defective product.

Seek medical attention immediately, even for seemingly minor injuries.
Preserve the product in its current condition. Do not alter or repair it.
Keep all packaging, instructions, and receipts related to the product.
Document your injuries with photographs and detailed notes.
Report the incident to the manufacturer and relevant regulatory agencies.
Retain copies of invoices or receipts for any relevant expenses.
Consult with a Virginia product liability lawyer to discuss your legal options.

Damages You May Seek to Recover With Your Claim

Victims of defective products may be entitled to compensation for losses and expenses. The specific damages available will depend on the circumstances of your case and the extent of your injuries.

Past and future medical expenses
Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Disability or disfigurement
Loss of enjoyment of life
Property damage
Punitive damages

How a Defective Product Lawyer Can Help

Product liability claims can be complex. Our experienced legal team can assist you by:

Investigating the cause of your injury
Identifying all liable parties
Gathering and preserving crucial evidence
Consulting with expert witnesses to support your claim
Handling communication with insurance companies and opposing counsel
Negotiating for a fair settlement on your behalf
Representing you in court if a settlement cannot be reached

Virginia's Statute of Limitations

It's important to act quickly if you've been injured by a defective product. In Virginia, the statute of limitations for product liability claims is generally two years from the date of injury. Failing to file your case by this deadline may result in losing your right to seek compensation.

Contact Our Virginia Product Liability Lawyers

If you or a loved one has been harmed by a defective product, don't face the legal process alone. The experienced product liability attorneys at The Mottley Law Firm will guide you through every step of your claim. We're committed to helping you seek the compensation you deserve and holding negligent manufacturers accountable.

Contact our Richmond office today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist with your product liability case. Let us put our knowledge and experience to work for you.