Product designers, manufacturers, and sellers are obligated to provide consumers with safe and reliable products. If you or a family member has been harmed by a defective or dangerous product, our Beaumont, CA product liability attorney is here to advocate for you. We offer complimentary consultations; contact us at (951) 688-0006 or request an appointment online today.
We firmly believe in providing passionate and high-quality legal representation to product liability victims, combining assertive advocacy with skilled legal advice to alleviate the emotional and financial burdens associated with pursuing a claim. Our commitments include:
Dani Mouri is a well-regarded and experienced personal injury attorney based in Riverside, renowned for securing substantial settlements and verdicts for accident victims. With extensive experience in arbitration and litigation, Mr. Mouri is committed to tirelessly advocating for product liability clients, ensuring they receive the maximum compensation they deserve.
A product liability attorney’s skill, experience, and resources can be invaluable if you have been harmed by a defective or dangerous product. For example:
Legal Knowledge
Product liability cases can be complex and challenging to navigate. A lawyer with experience in this area of law will have the necessary legal knowledge to tailor a strategy to your unique circumstances and significantly increase the chance of a successful outcome.
Investigation
An attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding your injury, including gathering evidence, obtaining witness statements, and consulting with experts to determine the cause of the defect and who is liable.
Negotiations
Product liability claims frequently involve negotiations with insurance companies and defense attorneys. Your lawyer will skillfully handle all communications on your behalf to pursue a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your losses.
Litigation
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to court and advocate for your rights in front of a judge and jury. They will present compelling evidence and arguments to support your claim and seek the maximum compensation available under the law.
By entrusting your case to a skilled and experienced lawyer, you can have peace of mind knowing that your legal rights are being protected and that you have a dedicated advocate fighting for you every step of the way.
Product liability laws in California are designed to protect consumers who have been harmed by defective or dangerous products. These laws hold manufacturers, distributors, and sellers accountable for the products they put into the hands of consumers. In California, product liability claims can be based on three main theories of liability: strict liability, negligence, and breach of warranty.
Strict Liability
California follows a strict liability standard for product liability cases. This means that manufacturers, distributors, and sellers can be held liable for injuries caused by defective products regardless of fault or negligence. According to California Civil Jury Instructions (CACI) Series 1200, to establish strict liability, the plaintiff (injury victim) must prove that the product was defective, the defect existed when the product left the defendant’s (at-fault party’s) control, and the defect caused the plaintiff’s injuries while the product was being used as intended.
Negligence
In addition to strict liability, product liability claims in California can also be based on negligence under California Civil Code Section 1714(a), which states that:
“Everyone is responsible, not only for the result of his or her willful acts, but also for an injury occasioned to another by his or her want of ordinary care or skill in the management of his or her property or person, except so far as the latter has, willfully or by want of ordinary care, brought the injury upon himself or herself.”
To prove negligence, the plaintiff must show that the defendant owed a duty of care, breached that duty by manufacturing or selling a defective product, and that breach caused the plaintiff’s injuries. Unlike strict liability, negligence requires proving that the defendant acted unreasonably or negligently in producing or selling the product.
Breach of Warranty
Product liability claims can also be based on breach of warranty, either express or implied. Express warranties under Cal. Com. Code § 2313 are explicit promises made by the manufacturer or seller about the quality or safety of the product. Implied warranties under Cal. Com. Code § 2315, such as the implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, are automatically created by law and guarantee that a product is fit for its intended use. If a product fails to meet these warranties and causes harm, the manufacturer or seller may be held liable.
Time Limit on Product Liability Claims
California has a statute of limitations that governs how long a plaintiff has to file a product liability claim. Generally, it is two years from the date of injury or discovery of the injury and there are limited exceptions to this rule.
In a product liability claim, various types of compensation, also known as damages, may be available to the injured party. These damages aim to provide financial relief for the harm suffered due to a defective product. Here are the types of compensation commonly awarded:
Medical Expenses
This includes reimbursement for all past and future medical bills related to the injury caused by the defective product. It covers expenses such as hospital stays, surgeries, doctor’s visits, medication, rehabilitation, therapy, and medical equipment.
Lost Income
If the injury prevents you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, including both past and future income lost due to the inability to work. This also encompasses lost earning capacity if the injury results in long-term or permanent disability affecting your ability to earn a living.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for pain and suffering aims to provide financial redress for the physical and emotional distress experienced as a result of the injury. This includes pain, discomfort, anxiety, depression, loss of enjoyment of life, and other non-economic damages.
Disfigurement and Scarring
If the injury leaves visible scars or disfigurement, you may be entitled to compensation for the physical and emotional impact of these changes to your appearance.
Loss of Consortium
This type of compensation may be available to your spouse or family members for the loss of companionship, care, support, and services due to the injury.
Punitive Damages
In cases involving egregious misconduct or gross negligence on the part of the defendant, punitive damages may be awarded as punishment and to deter similar conduct in the future.
If a defective product has injured you or a loved one, don’t hesitate to contact Hanson & Mouri to schedule a free consultation. Let our Beaumont, CA product liability attorney fight for your rights and pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.