You expect that the household goods, personal items, and consumer products you purchase uphold the highest safety standards. Unfortunately, defective products do make their way into countless Maryland homes every year. It is a relief to know that you have legal remedies to recover compensation. Under Maryland’s statute of limitations, you have three years to pursue the at-fault party.
As with any legal matter, the success of your claim comes down to proof. You will need solid evidence to support your case, and your Baltimore County product liability attorney will assist in collecting important information. However, it is also helpful to know how to prove an injury from a defective product in Maryland.
What are Maryland’s Product Liability Laws?
Maryland product liability laws protect consumers injured by defective products. These laws allow victims to file claims based on three concepts:
1. Strict liability means a manufacturer can be held responsible even if they were not negligent.
2. Negligence claims require proof that the company failed to ensure product safety.
3. Breach of warranty occurs when a product does not perform as promised.
Types of Defective Product Claims in Maryland
Defective product claims in Maryland fall into three main categories:
1. Design defects occur when a product is inherently unsafe due to its design, even if made correctly.
2. Manufacturing defects happen when an error during production makes a product dangerous, such as faulty materials or assembly mistakes.
3. Labeling errors include inadequate warnings, unclear instructions, or missing safety information.
Victims injured by any of these defects may have a legal claim under Maryland’s product liability laws to seek compensation.
Key Evidence to Prove a Defective Product Injury in Maryland
Proving an injury from a defective product in Maryland requires strong evidence. Victims must show that the product was defective, that the defect caused their injury, and that they used the product as intended. Key evidence includes:
· Medical records
· Expert testimony
· Accident reports
· The defective product itself, if it exists
· Photographs of injuries
· Receipts and product instructions
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Defective Product Injury in Maryland?
Several parties can be held liable for a defective product injury in Maryland. Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers may all be responsible, depending on the circumstances. If a manufacturing defect caused the injury, the product maker is likely liable.
If the defect involved improper labeling or warnings, the distributor or retailer may also share responsibility. Under Maryland’s product liability laws, any company in the supply chain can be sued if their negligence contributed to the defect and resulting injury.
Contact a Maryland Product Liability Lawyer for Details
It can be challenging to prove an injury from a defective product, so legal help is essential for securing fair compensation. The Law Offices of Michael A. Freedman has decades of experience handling product liability claims and assisting injured clients throughout Baltimore County. Our team carefully investigates cases, gathers evidence, and fights for the compensation victims deserve. To discuss your case, please call 410.363.6848 or visit us online to schedule a free consultation at our offices in Owings Mills or Glen Burnie, MD.
