Product Liability Law
Product Liability Attorney in Joliet, IL
Injured by a defective product? EAM LAW holds manufacturers accountable for dangerous products that cause harm.
Product Injuries: Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding your rights when defective products cause injuries.
What types of product defects can lead to injury lawsuits in Illinois?
There are three main types of product defects: design defects (the product is inherently dangerous as designed), manufacturing defects (errors during production made the product dangerous), and marketing defects (inadequate warnings or instructions). These claims fall under personal injury cases involving unsafe products. Common defective products include automobiles, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, children’s toys, power tools, appliances, and consumer electronics.
Who can be held liable in a product liability case?
Multiple parties in the supply chain can be held responsible, including the manufacturer, distributor, wholesaler, and retailer. Under Illinois law, strict liability applies, meaning you don’t need to prove negligence – only that the product was defective and caused your injury. This allows you to recover compensation even if every party in the chain acted reasonably.
What do I need to prove in a product liability case in Illinois?
You must prove that the product was defective, you were injured while using the product as intended (or in a reasonably foreseeable way), and the defect caused your injury. It’s crucial to preserve the product exactly as it was when the injury occurred. Don’t attempt to fix or modify it, as this can destroy important evidence needed for your case.
How long do I have to file a product liability lawsuit in Illinois?
Illinois has a two-year statute of limitations for product liability cases, starting from when you discovered or should have discovered your injury. There’s also a statute of repose that generally bars claims more than 12 years after the product was first sold. However, these deadlines can vary based on specific circumstances, so contact an attorney immediately after discovering your injury.
What damages can I recover in a product liability case?
You may recover economic damages including medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and future medical care. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases involving particularly egregious conduct by the manufacturer, punitive damages may also be available to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct.
Why Choose EAM LAW for Product Liability Cases?
- Experience with complex product defect investigations
- Network of engineering and safety experts
- Resources to take on large manufacturers and corporations
- Track record of successful product liability settlements
Injured by a Defective Product?
Manufacturers must be held accountable for dangerous products. Contact us for expert legal representation.