When a product fails to meet safety standards or is defectively designed, manufactured, or marketed, the negligent actions of corporations, manufacturers, and other business entities in the supply chain can directly harm consumers. These companies are responsible for ensuring that their products are safe for use, and when they fail in this duty, they should be held accountable for the resulting injuries.
At Wagner Reese, LLP, our product liability attorneys have the skills and resources to take on powerful corporations and recover damages for injured victims. We have achieved several multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts for our clients, and our dedication has earned us recognition from the legal community.
Our Fort Wayne personal injury lawyers have been honored by organizations such as Super Lawyers® and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
Product Liability Laws in Fort Wayne, IN
In Indiana, product liability laws hold manufacturers, distributors, and retailers responsible for placing defective products into the market that cause harm. At Wagner Reese, our knowledgeable Fort Wayne product defect lawyers will use these laws to prove the liability of the negligent businesses and recover damages on your behalf.
Strict Liability of the Manufacturer
Under Indiana Code § 34-20-2-3, a manufacturer can be held strictly liable for harm caused by a defective product, regardless of whether the manufacturer acted negligently.
To establish strict liability, the injured party must prove the product was sold in a defective condition unreasonably dangerous to consumers, that the defect existed at the time the product left the manufacturer’s control, and that the defect directly caused the injury.
Products Defects Recognized Under the Law
Design Defects
These occur when a product is inherently dangerous due to its design, even if it’s manufactured properly. A design defect makes the product unreasonably dangerous for its intended use. For example, a car with a faulty design that increases the likelihood of rollover accidents would be considered defectively designed.
Manufacturing Defects
Manufacturing defects happen during the production process and may affect only one or a few units of a product. These defects can occur due to substandard materials, errors during assembly, or problems with the machinery used to make the product. For example, a batch of faulty brakes that were installed in a vehicle, causing accidents, could be a manufacturing defect.
Marketing Defects (Failure to Warn)
Manufacturers and distributors must provide adequate warnings about the potential dangers of using their products. If a product has hidden risks or hazards, and the company fails to provide adequate warnings or instructions, it could be held liable for injuries. An example would be failing to warn about the dangers of using a chemical product in a poorly ventilated area.
Our Product Liability Legal Services in Fort Wayne
At Wagner Reese, we have extensive experience representing clients in various types of product liability cases.
Defective Consumer Products
From defective household items, such as power tools or kitchen appliances, to faulty toys or electronics, consumer products are often the source of accidents. We represent clients who have been injured by everyday products due to design or manufacturing defects.
Dangerous Medical Devices
Injuries caused by defective medical devices, including defective implants, pacemakers, and surgical tools, can have life-altering consequences. We help victims of defective medical devices pursue compensation for their injuries.
Pharmaceutical Defects
Drug manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure their products are safe and properly labeled. If a medication causes harm due to a defect, improper labeling, or insufficient warnings, we hold pharmaceutical companies accountable for their negligence.
Automobile Defects
Defects in vehicles, including faulty airbags, defective tires, or issues with brakes, can lead to severe accidents. We represent individuals injured in car accidents due to auto defects, ensuring that manufacturers are held responsible for unsafe vehicles.
Industrial and Heavy Equipment
Defective machinery and industrial equipment can result in serious workplace injuries. Our attorneys handle cases involving defective cranes, forklifts, machinery, and other industrial products.
Toxic Exposure
If a product exposes consumers to harmful chemicals or hazardous substances, and the manufacturer fails to warn of the risks, we represent individuals who suffer from the long-term health effects of toxic exposure.
Food and Beverage Safety
Defective food products, such as contaminated or misbranded food, can cause severe illness or injury. We help clients who have been harmed by foodborne illnesses or defective food products.
Get Strong Legal Representation from Our Fort Wayne Product Liability Lawyers
Corporations and insurance companies will only settle product liability claims fairly when they believe a jury will make them pay even more. At Wagner Reese, we’re not afraid to take your case to trial if it means securing the justice and compensation you deserve. We have a formidable record of obtaining seven-figure and even eight-figure financial recoveries for our clients through settlements and verdicts. To schedule your free consultation, call us at (888) 204-8440 or contact us online.
