Best Dangerous Product Lawyers in Oklahoma

About Dangerous Product Law in Oklahoma, United States

Dangerous product law, also known as product liability law, involves legal claims when a person is injured or suffers damages because of using a defective or unsafe product. In Oklahoma, these laws are designed to hold manufacturers, distributors, and sellers accountable if a product is unreasonably dangerous when used as intended. Product liability claims can arise from a wide range of consumer goods, including appliances, automobiles, medical devices, toys, tools, and more. The goal is to ensure safer products in the marketplace and to provide recourse for consumers harmed by defective goods.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective or dangerous product, consulting a lawyer can be crucial. Product liability cases are often complex and may involve large corporations, expert testimony, and detailed technical evidence. Common situations where you may need legal help include:

• Suffering injuries due to a design flaw or manufacturing defect in a product
• Experiencing harm from products that lack proper safety warnings or instructions
• Receiving a recall notice after being injured by a product
• Being part of a group harmed by the same defective product (potential class action)
• Needing help in dealing with insurance companies or manufacturers after a product injury
• Facing disputes over liability or compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering

Local Laws Overview

Oklahoma's product liability laws fall under state statutes and common law principles, as well as some federal regulations. Key points include:

• Oklahoma follows a "strict liability" standard in most product defect cases. This means an injured person does not have to prove the manufacturer was negligent. It is enough to show that the product was defective, the defect existed when it left the manufacturer's control, and the defect caused the injury.
• There are three main types of product defects: design defects, manufacturing defects, and marketing defects (inadequate warnings or instructions).
• Oklahoma recognizes comparative negligence. If the injured person contributed to their own harm, their compensation may be reduced based on their degree of fault.
• The statute of limitations in Oklahoma for product liability claims is generally two years from the date of injury. Delays can jeopardize your case, so acting swiftly is important.
• There may be exceptions or additional rules for certain types of products, such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, or agricultural equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a product "dangerous" or "defective" under Oklahoma law?

A product is considered dangerous or defective if it has a design flaw, manufacturing error, or lacks adequate warnings, making it unreasonably unsafe for intended use.

Who can be held liable for a dangerous product injury?

Manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and retailers in the product's supply chain may all be held liable, depending on the circumstances.

Do I have to prove the manufacturer was negligent to win my case?

No. Oklahoma uses a strict liability standard for most product liability claims, so you only need to show the product was defective and caused your injury.

What damages can I recover in a dangerous product lawsuit?

You may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, and sometimes punitive damages if the conduct was egregious.

What evidence should I gather if I am injured by a product?

Keep the product as evidence, take photos of your injuries and the product, gather medical records, save purchase receipts, and obtain witness statements if possible.

Is there a time limit to file a dangerous product lawsuit in Oklahoma?

Yes, generally you have two years from the date of injury to file a product liability lawsuit in Oklahoma.

What if I was partially at fault for my injury?

Oklahoma's comparative negligence laws may reduce your recovery by your percentage of fault, as long as you are not more at fault than the defendants.

Can I file a claim if I was not the person who purchased the product?

Yes. You do not have to be the purchaser as long as you were injured by using the product in a way that was intended or foreseeable.

What if the product has been recalled?

A recall can support your claim, but it is not required. Even if a product was not recalled, you may still have a valid legal claim if it was defective.

Do I need to hire a lawyer for my dangerous product case?

While not legally required, having a lawyer can increase your chance of a successful outcome because of the complexity of product liability law and the resources available to manufacturers.

Additional Resources

• Oklahoma Bar Association - Provides lawyer referrals and general legal information.
• Oklahoma Attorney General's Office - Offers consumer protection guidance and resources for reporting dangerous products.
• U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) - Federal agency that regulates product safety and issues recalls.
• Oklahoma Department of Health - May have information on recalled or dangerous medical products and devices.
• Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma - Offers free or low-cost legal assistance if you qualify.

Next Steps

If you believe you have been harmed by a dangerous or defective product in Oklahoma, it is important to take the following steps:

• Seek prompt medical attention for your injuries and gather documentation.
• Preserve the product, packaging, receipts, and any warning materials.
• Document your injuries and keep records of related expenses.
• Contact a qualified lawyer with experience in product liability cases for a case evaluation.
• Act quickly to avoid missing the statute of limitations and to ensure evidence is preserved.

A legal professional can guide you through the process, help you understand your rights, and work towards fair compensation for your losses.