If you have been injured because of a defective product, it’s natural that you’ll want to recover damages and compensation for your suffering. But that’s easier said than done, because you will have to first determine all the companies and people who may be liable and raise a claim against them individually. The more defendants you can identify, the better your chances are of being properly recompensed.
In general, most states agree on who the kinds of defendants are in defective products law.
All Links in the Distribution Chain
In general all links in the distribution chain of the defective product should be cited as defendants. This starts right from the manufacturer thorough to the retailer and those in between. By this you can include the designer of the product and all those involved in marketing it, provided you can prove that they had some connection with the defect.
No One is Left Out
If the defective product is a component of a larger product, then the manufacturer of the larger product is also a defendant. For example, if you buy an electric kettle with a defective switch because of which you have been injured, you should raise a claim against the manufacturer of the switch and also the manufacturer of the kettle which used a defective component.
The Seller is not Exempt Either
The retailer which played no part in manufacture is equally responsible and liable for selling a defective product. Any entity involved in distribution can reasonably be held responsible and this could include a host of wholesalers, distributors, and suppliers in between.
Receiving a Fair Amount
There is a very good reason why you should cite as many defendants as you possibly can. If one of your defendants is unable to pay, regardless of the reason, you can still collect from the others. If your case is legitimate, you deserve something.
Whom to Seek
Above all, consult a personal injury attorney if you have been injured by a defective product. Let an experienced attorney walk through the process with you, every step of the way.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by attorney Taylor King, who opened the firm’s first office in 1994 and has been practicing law for more than 30 years.
National Impaired Driving Prevention Month It seems appropriate that December should be National Impaired Driving Prevent...
Looking for a fun, family-friendly outing for the summer? You don’t have to go far. We’re showcasing the best that Arkans...
If you were involved in a car wreck, truck accident, or motorcycle crash, it’s important to get a copy of the police acci...
Please describe your accident and the injuries you sustained. One of our experienced injury lawyers will contact you for a free case evaluation. If we’re able to assist and you’re unable to travel, we can meet you at your home, workplace, or hospital.
call for a free consultation
820 W 3rd Street
Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone: 501.712.2554
Toll-Free: 1.877.455.4790
Fax: 870.246.0529
410 N Thompson Street, Suite B
Springdale, AR 72764
Phone: 479.935.1761
Toll-Free: 1.877.283.1274
Fax: 870.293.2475
320 Main Street
Arkadelphia, AR 71923
Phone: 870.246.0505
Toll-Free: 1.877.665.0873
Fax: 870.246.0529
2620 Prince Street
Conway, AR 72034
Phone: 501.712.2554
Toll-Free: 1.877.696.8695
Fax: 870.246.0529
1920 East Matthews Avenue
Jonesboro, AR 72401
Phone: 870.568.1158
Toll-Free: 1.877.589.2660
Fax: 870.520.5099
3801 Rogers Avenue
Fort Smith, AR 72903
Phone: 479.668.3198
Toll-Free: 1.877.899.3202
Fax: 479.234.4216