Damages in Chicago Product Liability Cases

Product liability laws protect consumers from negligent manufacturers, designers, and distributors. If you were hurt because you used a defective product or did not get a proper warning about its dangers, you can seek compensation.

To recover fair damages in Chicago product liability cases, you need to work with a skilled attorney. A product liability lawyer can evaluate the damages and demand fair damage recovery from the at-fault party. With the right legal approach, you could receive compensation that covers all injury-related expenses.

Damages in Product Liability Cases

Damages in product liability cases in Chicago can differ depending on many circumstances surrounding the case. The most common damages are the following.

Medical Expenses

Injuries sustained from using defective or dangerous products can require immediate and ongoing medical attention. Compensation may cover hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy. It should also cover future medical care the injured person may need. This may include rehabilitation costs and at-home care.

Lost Wages

If injuries prevent the victim from working, they may be entitled to recover lost wages. Similar to medical expenses, the person can recover both current and future damages. For example, they can be compensated for the income they had already lost while undergoing treatment and the income they may lose if the ability to work is permanently impacted.

Pain and Suffering

Defective products can lead to significant emotional and mental distress. Damages for pain and suffering have to compensate for the overall decline in quality of life.

Property Damage

In some cases, a defective product causes damage to personal property. For example, faulty electronic devices could cause a fire in a building or do heavy damage to a car. The compensation may cover the cost of repairs or replacement.

Wrongful Death

If a defective product results in a fatality, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim. Wrongful death damages usually include funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional toll of losing a loved one.

The Compensation Amount

The amount of damages a person can recover in Chicago product liability cases depends on several factors:

  • Severity of the Injury: The more severe the injury, the higher the potential compensation. Catastrophic injuries, such as permanent disabilities, often result in larger settlements.
  • Impact on Quality of Life: Compensation may increase if the injury significantly diminishes the victim’s ability to enjoy daily activities or maintain relationships.
  • Degree of Negligence: If the manufacturer, designer, or distributor acted with gross negligence or intentional misconduct, the court may award punitive damages. These damages are meant to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.
  • Insurance Coverage: The at-fault party’s insurance policy limits may affect the compensation amount. If the damages exceed these limits, recovering the full amount may require filing a lawsuit.

The key factor affecting the amount of the compensation is the skills of the legal team. Only a qualified attorney can build a strong case that helps the victim recover full compensation.

Talk to an Attorney in Chicago About Damages in Product Liability Cases

Recovering fair damages in Chicago product liability cases is rarely easy. The injured party does not just have to present a strong case but also withstand the immense pressure to settle for a low amount. At McCready Law, our personal injury lawyers help our clients claim fair damages while giving them time to focus on their health. Call us to schedule a free consultation today.