The Leading Product Liability Lawyer in Fresno

What Is Product Liability?

Product liability refers to the legal responsibility that manufacturers, distributors, and retailers have to ensure the safety of the products they sell. When a product causes injury because it’s unsafe, defective, or improperly marketed, the injured party may have grounds for a product liability lawsuit.

Types of Product Defects

Most claims fall into three main categories:

• Design Defects: The product is unsafe from the start because of the way it was designed. Even if manufactured correctly, it poses an unreasonable risk to users. A poorly designed piece of machinery or unsafe children’s toy may fall under this category.
• Manufacturing Defects: The product design was safe, but something went wrong during production. A batch of contaminated food or a medical device assembled incorrectly may involve manufacturing defects or issues caused by a factory defect.
• Failure to Warn/Marketing Defects: Companies must provide proper instructions and warnings about risks. If they fail to warn consumers about dangers, they can be held responsible.

What to Do After a Product-Related Injury

Your actions after an injury can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Try to:

• Seek medical attention immediately
  
• Preserve the product and any packaging or instructions
  
• Take photos of the product and injuries
  
• Gather receipts or proof of purchase
  
• Write down what happened while it’s fresh in your memory

Avoid throwing away or returning the product—this could make proving your case more difficult.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Product Liability Case? 

Many people assume only the manufacturer can be sued, but several parties may share responsibility, including:

• Manufacturers
  
• Distributors
  
• Retailers
  
• Suppliers
  
• Designers
  
• Marketing companies

How a Product Liability Lawyer Can Help

You don’t have to face large corporations or insurance carriers alone—our team levels the playing field. Our product liability attorneys investigate every potential source of liability to build the strongest case possible. We work with experts to analyze the product, identify defects in the production process, and obtain corporate records or safety reports that may reveal negligence. Throughout the process, we handle all communication with insurance companies, manage negotiations, and pursue litigation when necessary, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we fight for the outcome you deserve.

What Compensation Can You Recover in a Product Liability Case?

Compensation varies depending on the severity of the injury and its impact on your life. You may be able to recover damages for:

• Medical bills and future care
  
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
  
• Pain and suffering
  
• Property damage
  
• Rehabilitation and long-term treatment
  
• Disability or disfigurement
  
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Note: In cases involving extreme negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may also be available.

When to Hire a Product Liability Lawyer

If you suspect a dangerous or defective product caused your injury, it’s important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. These cases often require extensive investigation and expert testimony.

Evidence can disappear quickly, companies may attempt to shift blame, and injury victims may face pressure from insurers to accept low settlements. Speaking with a product liability lawyer early helps protect your rights and strengthens your claim.

How Product Liability Cases Work

Once you hire an attorney, the process typically begins with a thorough investigation into the product and the incident that caused your injury. Your legal team will gather documentation and expert opinions, file claims against the responsible parties, and begin negotiations with insurance companies.

If a fair agreement cannot be reached, your attorney may file a lawsuit and prepare the case for trial. While many product liability matters settle before ever reaching a courtroom, we are always prepared to litigate when necessary to pursue the compensation you deserve.

How Long Does a Product Liability Case Take to Resolve?

Timelines can vary widely. Straightforward cases may settle within several months, while complex claims (especially those involving severe injuries or corporate defendants) can take a year or longer. Some of the biggest factors include:

• Number of parties involved
  
• Disputes over liability
  
• Severity of injuries
  
• Need for expert evaluations
  
• Whether the case goes to trial