Best Dangerous Product Lawyers in Tempe

About Dangerous Product Law in Tempe, United States

Dangerous product law in Tempe, Arizona, is a segment of personal injury law dealing with injuries or damages caused by defective or hazardous products. These products can range from household appliances and toys to vehicles and pharmaceuticals. If a product is unsafe due to design flaws, manufacturing errors, or inadequate instructions or warnings, and that product causes harm, the injured person may be entitled to compensation. This area of law is generally called product liability and can involve claims against manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, or retailers.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer with experience in dangerous product cases if you or a loved one has been injured or harmed by a product you believe was unsafe or defective. Common situations where people require legal help include:

• Being injured by a malfunctioning appliance or tool
• Suffering side effects from dangerous medications
• A child being hurt by a hazardous toy
• Injury resulting from improper product labeling or missing safety warnings
• Accidents caused by vehicle defects
• Harm caused by contaminated food or personal care items

A lawyer can help you determine responsibility, guide you through legal procedures, gather evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and pursue compensation for your injuries, medical costs, and other damages.

Local Laws Overview

Arizona, including Tempe, follows strict product liability laws. Under Arizona Revised Statutes, a product is considered defective if it is unreasonably dangerous to the user or consumer. Product liability claims can be based on three main theories: design defects, manufacturing defects, and failure to warn (marketing defects).

In Arizona, product liability cases are subject to a general statute of limitations of two years from the date of injury. Comparative fault law applies, which means if the injured party contributed to their own harm, their compensation may be reduced. Importantly, Arizona does not require proof of negligence in strict liability claims, only proof that the product was defective and caused harm.

Tempe courts follow both state and federal regulations related to consumer product safety, including standards set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered a dangerous or defective product?

A dangerous or defective product is any product that has a flaw in its design, manufacturing, or lacks appropriate warnings or instructions, making it unsafe for intended or foreseeable use.

Who can be held liable for a dangerous product injury?

Manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, and retailers can all potentially be liable if you are injured by a dangerous product in Tempe.

What compensation can I recover in a dangerous product case?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and sometimes punitive damages if the responsible party acted egregiously.

How long do I have to file a claim in Tempe?

Generally, you have two years from the date of injury to file a product liability lawsuit in Arizona. There may be exceptions, so consult a lawyer as soon as possible.

Do I have to prove negligence to win my case?

For strict liability claims, you do not need to prove negligence. You only need to show the product was defective and caused your injury.

What if I was partially at fault for my injury?

Arizona follows the rule of comparative fault. If you were partially responsible, your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your level of fault.

Can I sue for injuries from recalled products?

Yes. If a recalled product caused your injury, you may still pursue a claim, and the recall notice can be important evidence in your case.

What if the product was altered after purchase?

If the product was substantially modified after sale and that alteration caused the injury, it may affect your ability to recover compensation.

How can a lawyer help with my dangerous product case?

A lawyer will investigate your claim, gather evidence, handle negotiations, ensure compliance with legal procedures, represent you in court, and fight for fair compensation.

Are there any special considerations for children’s products?

Yes. Children’s products are subject to strict safety regulations. If a child is harmed by a dangerous toy or product, additional regulations and consumer protections may apply.

Additional Resources

Several resources and organizations can provide helpful information or support for those dealing with dangerous products in Tempe:

• Arizona Attorney General’s Office - Consumer Protection Section
• U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
• Arizona Department of Health Services - Product Safety
• Maricopa County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service
• Better Business Bureau Serving the Pacific Southwest

Next Steps

If you believe you have been injured by a dangerous or defective product in Tempe, take these steps:

1. Seek immediate medical attention for your injuries and keep records of all treatments.
2. Preserve the product and any packaging and documentation if possible. Take photos of your injuries and the product.
3. Write down details about how the incident happened.
4. Avoid discussing your case with insurance companies or product representatives before speaking with an attorney.
5. Consult an experienced Tempe-based dangerous product lawyer for a case evaluation. They can help you understand your legal rights and next steps.

Remember, time limits apply to these cases. Acting promptly increases your chances of a successful outcome.