Best Dangerous Product Lawyers in Michigan

About Dangerous Product Law in Michigan, United States

Dangerous product law, also known as product liability law, addresses the responsibility manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and retailers have when their products cause harm to consumers. In Michigan, as throughout the United States, consumers have legal rights if they are injured or suffer a loss because of a dangerous, defective, or unsafe product. This area of law is meant to help ensure that products are reasonably safe for their intended use and that victims have avenues to seek compensation when things go wrong.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

If you or someone you care about has been harmed by a dangerous product, you may face complicated questions about who is responsible and how to pursue compensation. Situations where you might need legal help include:

• Suffering injury or illness from using a defective consumer product, appliance, electronic device, or vehicle.
• Discovering a child's toy or infant product is unsafe after it causes injury.
• Experiencing harm from unsafe pharmaceutical medications or medical devices.
• Dealing with the aftermath of a product recall involving a product you used.
• Facing denial of a valid claim by insurance companies or product manufacturers.
• Needing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, or other damages resulting from a dangerous product.

A lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, determine liable parties, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Local Laws Overview

Michigan product liability laws contain several important rules for those affected by dangerous products:

• Product liability claims: Michigan follows a mix of strict liability, negligence, and breach of warranty principles for product-related injuries.
• Statute of limitations: In Michigan, there is usually a three-year time limit from the date of injury to file a product liability lawsuit.
• Defenses available to manufacturers: Michigan law allows certain defenses for manufacturers, such as if the product was misused, altered after sale, or if adequate warnings were provided.
• Comparative fault: Michigan uses a modified comparative fault system, meaning your compensation could be reduced if you are partly at fault for your injuries.
• Caps on damages: Michigan law limits non-economic damages in some product liability cases, like those involving pharmaceutical products.
• Recall laws: If a product has been recalled, it could impact your claim, but you may still have rights for injuries that occurred before or after recall announcements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifies as a dangerous or defective product?

A dangerous or defective product is one that poses an unreasonable risk of injury or illness when used as intended, due to design flaws, manufacturing defects, or inadequate warnings or instructions.

What types of products can be involved in a product liability case?

A wide variety of products can be involved in these cases, including cars, appliances, electronics, medical devices, toys, tools, chemicals, food products, and pharmaceuticals.

Who can I sue if I am injured by a dangerous product in Michigan?

You may be able to bring a claim against any party in the product's chain of distribution, including the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer.

Do I still have a case if the product was recalled?

Yes. A recall does not eliminate your right to pursue compensation for injuries caused by that product. It may even strengthen your case, depending on the circumstances.

What should I do if I am hurt by a dangerous product?

Seek medical attention immediately, keep the product and any packaging or instructions, document your injuries, take photographs if possible, and consult a lawyer before discarding anything related to the product or communicating with the manufacturer.

How long do I have to file a product liability lawsuit in Michigan?

Michigan law generally provides three years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit, but certain circumstances may alter this deadline. Speak with a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.

What if I misused the product?

If you misused the product in a way that was not reasonably foreseeable, it may affect your ability to recover compensation. However, you may still have a claim if the misuse was foreseeable by the manufacturer.

Can I still recover damages if I was partially responsible?

Yes, but your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault, according to Michigan's modified comparative fault rule.

What damages can I seek in a dangerous product case?

Damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, permanent disability, and property damage. In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the conduct was egregious.

Is there a difference between product liability and personal injury law?

Product liability is a specific area of personal injury law that deals specifically with injuries caused by dangerous or defective products. The laws and procedures can be different from other personal injury cases.

Additional Resources

Here are some organizations and resources that can offer helpful information or assistance regarding dangerous products in Michigan:

• Michigan Consumer Protection Division - offers education and accepts complaints about unsafe products
• Michigan Attorney General's Office - provides guidance on product safety and recalls
• U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission - lists current product recalls and safety education
• Food and Drug Administration - posts recalls and alerts for food, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices
• Local bar associations in your county - may offer lawyer referral services or legal clinics

Next Steps

If you believe you have been harmed by a dangerous product in Michigan, take the following steps:

1. Get necessary medical care for your injuries and keep all medical records.
2. Preserve the product, packaging, and any receipts or instruction manuals.
3. Document the injury and circumstances by taking notes and photographs.
4. Avoid discussing the incident with the manufacturer, their insurer, or on social media before consulting a lawyer.
5. Seek legal advice from an experienced product liability attorney who understands Michigan law. Many offer free consultations.

Acting quickly can help you preserve evidence and strengthen your case. A knowledgeable attorney can guide you through the legal process and advocate for your right to compensation.