Product Liability Attorney In Upper Michigan

Defective consumer products cause thousands of major injuries each year. Companies have a duty to make sure that the products they make are safe. Just about every consumer item – cars, automotive products, toys, medical devices, pharmaceutical products, appliances, tools – is subject to state and/or federal product liability law.

I’m attorney Jonny Waara, and at Waara Law, I help those who have been injured by defective products in Upper Michigan and Northeast Wisconsin.

There are three major types of product defects, though there are varying standards for defectiveness depending on the product as well as the jurisdiction. These three general categories are:

• Manufacturing/production defects: Products that were improperly manufactured despite being designed with all due care.
• Design defects: Because of how these items were designed, they could have a foreseeable risk of harm that may have been reduced by using a different design.
• Defective warnings/instructions: These are defective because there is a present foreseeable risk of harm due to an absence of adequate warnings or instructions.

If you have been injured by a defective product, keep the product. Do not throw it away or send it back to the manufacturer. The product will have to be tested and analyzed to prove it was defective and without the product itself, it is very difficult to bring a claim. Varying statutes of limitations apply to different product liability actions.

Answering Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Product Liability

When our clients are injured by defective products, they often have many questions about their rights and the legal process. As we represent you, we can answer your questions while building a strong case on your behalf. Some of the questions we frequently hear from our clients include:

What should I do immediately after being injured by a defective product?

If you’ve been injured by a defective product, prioritize your safety and seek medical attention. Preserve the product in its current condition and avoid altering or disposing of it, as it will serve as critical evidence in your case. Document your injuries, take photos of the product, and gather any receipts or proof of purchase.

Are there time limits for filing a product liability claim in Michigan?

Yes, Michigan has time limits for filing a product liability claim, including a three-year statute of limitations and a 10-year statute of repose. The three-year statute of limitations generally requires a lawsuit to be filed within three years of the date of injury. Time limits vary depending on the type of claim and circumstances of the injury. Acting quickly is crucial to ensure your case is filed within the required timeframe. Consulting with an attorney as soon as possible can help you avoid missing important deadlines.

Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the injury?

Michigan follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means you may still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault, as long as your fault does not exceed 50%. However, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. An attorney can help assess your case and navigate the complexities of shared fault in product liability claims.

Speak With A Michigan Product Liability Lawyer For Free

If you or a loved one has suffered a personal injury by a defective product, it may be possible to get compensation for the resulting medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It is important that you act as quickly as possible following the injury to ensure that adequate investigation occurs and that preservation of the evidence is secured.

For a free case evaluation, please contact me at 906-401-0021, or by email using my online form.