Monday, October 27, 2008

Product Liability and Recall Processes

Injuries caused by defective products are recoverable through product liability claim. Under the law, the manufacturers and distributors can be held responsible for injuries sustained by consumers.

If a product is found defective and its ill effects are proven, a product recall may be initiated by either the manufacturer or the distributor. Hence, reporting a defective product is necessary to prevent further harm or injury to consumers.

The article, “Nearly 1.6 Million Baby Cribs Recalled after Two Infant Deaths”, posted on October 21, 2008, provides an example of a voluntary recalling of a defective product after the reported death of two infants.

Based on the article, the investigation conducted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission revealed that the two infant deaths were caused by defective drop sides of the cribs. As a result, the manufacturer voluntarily pulled out or recalled all infant cribs made between 1995 and 2007 from the market, including mass retailers such as K-Mart, Wal-Mart and Target.

Normally, the process of product recall begins when defects in a product are reported and these are often noticed only after harm or injuries have been inflicted on consumers, or worse, when a life has been claimed.

Defective products are sometimes returned to the distributor who, in turn, notifies the manufacturer about the defects. After series of tests and recommendations are made, a defective productive may be recalled from the market.

If you believe your injuries are caused by the use of a defective product, you should immediately consult with a personal injury lawyer who can properly evaluate your case and take the necessary action, including the possible recall of the product in question.