While manufacturers, distributors, and sellers have a responsibility to ensure their products are not dangerous, some items may fall through the cracks. Product liability law holds these parties accountable for defective or dangerous products, and these claims fall under Illinois product liability statutes.
Establishing liability in Chicago product liability cases can be difficult, but a defective products lawyer could provide legal solutions. Establishing liability requires proving that a product was defective or dangerous and that it directly caused harm.
Liability in product-related injuries falls into one of several categories. First, products may have manufacturing defects, or flaws that occur during the production process. In contrast, design defects are fundamental issues in the product’s design that make it inherently unsafe. Finally, marketing defects refer to products in which the instructions or warnings are inadequate and fail to inform consumers of potential risks.
In Chicago, multiple parties may be responsible in defective product cases, including manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. Even online sellers that sell defective goods may be liable for the harm their product causes.
Proving liability is not always easy in Chicago defective product cases, even if there is sufficient evidence that harm occurred. An experienced attorney could work hard to demonstrate several key factors, including the fact that the product was defective in the first place.
A lawyer could also help prove that a defect caused harm, not just that it had the potential to cause injury. To do so, an attorney must demonstrate a direct link between the defect and the injury a victim experienced. Additionally, a legal team must show that the product was used as intended.
In Illinois, victims of product defects have two years to file a personal injury claim. According to 735 ILCS 5/13-213, this time limit begins on the date of the injury. Our lawyers could provide guidance for making a timely claim and ensure you meet these necessary deadlines.
If the product’s defect was not immediately apparent, a discovery rule could give you additional time to file. A knowledgeable lawyer could examine your case to ensure you can file a claim and meet deadlines for the discovery of evidence.
If you want to ensure you gather the right evidence, establish liability, and pursue compensation promptly, contact the experienced attorneys at McCready Law. A lawyer could assess the strength of your claim, negotiate with manufacturers, and represent you in court if necessary.
At McCready Law, you can count on our lawyers’ extensive experience handling product liability cases. Our legal team works diligently to hold negligent manufacturers accountable and secure compensation for anybody harmed by defective products. Schedule a consultation today to discuss establishing liability in Chicago product liability cases and learn more about your legal options.