Best Dangerous Product Lawyers in New Hampshire

About Dangerous Product Law in New Hampshire, United States

Dangerous product law, also known as product liability law, is designed to protect consumers from harm caused by defective or unsafe products. In New Hampshire, these laws provide a way for individuals who have been injured or suffered losses due to dangerous products to seek compensation from manufacturers, distributors, or retailers. The goal of dangerous product law is to hold companies accountable if their products cause injury due to defects, inadequate warnings, or unsafe designs.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

If you have been injured by a product, you may be facing medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other unexpected expenses. Dangerous product cases can be complex and often involve large corporations with significant legal resources. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, evaluate your claim, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. Some common situations where you may need a lawyer include injuries from defective medical devices, unsafe children's toys, faulty auto parts, malfunctioning appliances, toxic substances, or products sold without proper warnings.

Local Laws Overview

New Hampshire follows specific product liability laws that outline who can be held responsible and under what circumstances. Key points include:

• Strict Liability - You do not always have to prove that the manufacturer was negligent. If the product was defective and caused harm, the company can be held liable.
• Breach of Warranty - If a product fails to meet the terms of its express or implied warranty and causes injury, the injured party may have a claim.
• Negligence - You may sue if the company failed to take reasonable care in designing, manufacturing, or warning about the product.
• Comparative Fault - If you are partially responsible for your injury, your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your share of fault.
• Statute of Limitations - New Hampshire generally requires product liability lawsuits to be filed within three years of the injury or when the injury was discovered (or reasonably should have been discovered).
• Damages - Compensation can include medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and sometimes punitive damages if the conduct was especially egregious.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered a dangerous product?

A dangerous product is any item that poses an unreasonable risk of injury or harm when used as intended or as a result of a defect in design, manufacturing, or labeling.

Who can be held responsible for dangerous product injuries?

Manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and retailers may all potentially be liable for injuries caused by dangerous products.

Does New Hampshire have strict liability for product defects?

Yes, New Hampshire recognizes strict liability, which means you do not have to prove negligence if you can show that the product was defective and caused your injury.

How long do I have to file a dangerous product lawsuit in New Hampshire?

In most cases, you have three years from the date of injury or when the injury should have been reasonably discovered to file a claim.

What types of compensation can I seek for a dangerous product injury?

You may be able to recover medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and sometimes punitive damages.

Can I file a claim if I was partly at fault for my injury?

Yes, under New Hampshire’s comparative fault rule, you can still recover damages, but your award will be reduced based on your share of responsibility.

What evidence do I need for a dangerous product claim?

Evidence may include the defective product, medical records, expert testimony, product recall notices, and documentation of your injury and expenses.

Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations?

Some exceptions may apply, such as for minors or cases where an injury was not immediately discoverable. It is important to speak with a lawyer about your specific situation.

Do product recalls affect my case?

Recalls can strengthen your case by indicating a known problem with the product, but you can still pursue a claim even if no recall has occurred.

How much does it cost to hire a dangerous product lawyer?

Many product liability lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront and only owe legal fees if you recover compensation.

Additional Resources

If you need information or assistance regarding dangerous products in New Hampshire, the following organizations may be helpful:

• New Hampshire Department of Justice - Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau
• New Hampshire Judicial Branch - Civil Division
• United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
• New Hampshire Bar Association - Lawyer Referral Service
• Local consumer advocacy groups

Next Steps

If you or a loved one has been injured by a dangerous or defective product, it is important to take action promptly. Consider the following steps:

• Seek immediate medical attention and keep all treatment records.
• Preserve the product and any packaging or instructions.
• Document your injuries and expenses with photos and written records.
• Consult with a qualified product liability lawyer to evaluate your case and learn about your rights.
• Take note of any deadlines for filing a claim, such as the statute of limitations.

A legal professional can guide you through the process, protect your interests, and help you pursue fair compensation under New Hampshire law.