When a product fails and a person is injured, the consequences can be devastating. At Mortlock Law Group, we understand how confusing and overwhelming it feels when your safety has been compromised by something you trusted. In this article, we will explore how defective products cause harm, what legal theories may apply, and how our team helps injured individuals and families in North County San Diego seek justice.
What Is Product Liability?
Product liability is the legal concept under which manufacturers, distributors, or retailers may be held responsible when a product they put into circulation causes injury. Simply put: when a product malfunctions and people are harmed, someone may be liable.
At Mortlock Law Group, we often help people injured by a defective product—whether that’s a consumer gadget, a children’s toy, a household appliance, or industrial equipment—and guide them through the process of a claim.
The Ways Defective Products Cause Harm
There are several ways in which a product defect may lead to an injury. Understanding these helps you and your attorney determine who may be responsible.
Manufacturing Defects
A manufacturing defect occurs when a product departs from its intended design—perhaps because a part was faulty, materials were substandard, or production steps were skipped. Even if the design was safe, the particular item you received differed and caused injury.
For example, a pressure cooker that bursts because its safety valve was improperly installed.
Design Defects
A design defect arises when the very plan for the product is unsafe, even if it was built perfectly. That means every unit has the same dangerous characteristic.
Imagine a ladder designed with a structural weakness such that under normal use it collapses.
Failure to Warn or Instruct
Sometimes a product is defective because the manufacturer did not include proper warnings, instructions, or safeguards. If the danger was non-obvious and warnings were lacking, then a user may have no idea the risk was there.
For instance, a cleaning agent sold without a clear warning that it can emit toxic fumes when mixed with another common household product.
Each of these types of defects can lead to serious injury or even wrongful death. When a defective product causes harm, it is vital to act quickly.
How Defective Products Cause Harm: Real-World Impact
When defective products cause harm, the effects are often severe:
- Physical injuries: broken bones, burns, amputations, internal trauma.
- Long-term consequences: diminished mobility, chronic pain, permanent disability.
- Financial strain: medical bills, rehabilitation, lost wages, inability to return to work.
- Emotional stress: anxiety, fear, frustration from loss of normal life.
At Mortlock Law Group, we have seen how insurance companies and manufacturers may try to minimize responsibility. We believe victims deserve an advocate who will fight for full compensation and hold the responsible parties accountable.
What You Should Do If You’ve Been Injured by a Defective Product
If you or a loved one has been harmed by a product defect, taking certain steps can make a difference in preserving your rights. While every case is unique, here are some key actions:
- Seek medical care right away. Your health comes first.
- Preserve the product and its packaging, if possible. The defective item itself is key evidence.
- Take photographs of the product, the scene, your injuries, and any other relevant details.
- Keep documentation: purchase receipt, warranty information, instructions, and any communications about the product.
- Avoid disposing of the product until your attorney advises you—it may be needed for inspection.
- Contact an experienced personal injury attorney. The earlier you speak with a lawyer, the stronger your ability to preserve evidence and witness statements.
We at Mortlock Law Group work promptly to thoroughly investigate defective product claims. Our focus is on gathering evidence, identifying liability, and mapping out all damages—medical, emotional, and financial—to pursue full compensation.
Why Hiring a Skilled Attorney Matters
When defective products cause harm, the opposing side often has extensive resources—including investigators, engineers, and legal teams. This is why having a dedicated attorney matters.
At Mortlock Law Group:
- We provide straightforward, plain-English explanations of your case. You will know what to expect because we believe in keeping you fully informed.
- We handle cases on a contingency fee basis—meaning no attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you.
- We personally handle your case. You won’t be handed off to someone you’ve never spoken with. You receive the client attention you deserve.
- We leverage technology and local knowledge to give you a strategic advantage.
With defective product claims, key legal issues include whether the product was unreasonably dangerous, whether there was negligence or strict liability, who the responsible parties are (manufacturer, distributor, retailer), and how your injuries and losses can be documented.
Recoverable Damages When Defective Products Cause Harm
When you successfully pursue a defective product claim, you may be able to recover a variety of damages:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- In cases of wrongful death, compensation for survivors and dependents
At Mortlock Law Group, we carefully evaluate all forms of loss to aim for full and fair recovery on behalf of our clients.
Protecting Your Rights in North County San Diego
In California, you generally have a limited time to file a claim when defective products cause harm. While statutes vary depending on the circumstances, acting without delay is crucial. Waiting too long can mean losing your right to recover.
We strongly advise anyone injured by a product defect to reach out for a free consultation as soon as possible. At Mortlock Law Group, we will evaluate your case, explain your options, and begin building the strong support you need.
Your Next Step: Speak with Mortlock Law Group for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured because defective products caused harm, please do not hesitate to contact Mortlock Law Group. We serve clients throughout North County San Diego including Carlsbad, Encinitas, Oceanside, San Marcos, and the surrounding communities. We are ready to discuss your case and help you protect your rights.
