There are a number of different ways that a manufacturer of a dangerous or defective product may be liable to victims injured by the product. In some circumstances, a manufacturer may be liable for a failure to warn. Because it is a safety issue, it is important that consumers are familiar with the duties of manufacturers and the resources available to injured victims when the manufacturer has not fulfilled their duties and consumers have been injured as a result.
In general, warnings are required when a product presents a danger; when the manufacturer is aware of the danger; when the product presents a danger when it is used reasonably in its intended manner; and when the danger the product presents is not obvious to a reasonable user of the product. Whether circumstances call for a warning depends on the circumstances of each situation.
It is important to understand not only when warnings are required but what the duties of manufacturers are to keep consumers safe in reference to warnings and instructions. Manufacturers have a duty to warn consumers of hidden dangers associated with the product. Manufacturers must provide instructions concerning how to use the product safely and how to avoid any dangers associated with the product. Warnings should be specific and understandable and located where it is clearly visible to the consumer.
When a victim has been harmed by a dangerous or defective product, it can have a significant impact on the victim and their family and the victim may suffer a variety of different damages physically, financially and emotionally. There may be a number of ways that a manufacturer is liable to a victim injured by a dangerous or defective product, including insufficient warnings, and a failure to keep consumers safe. Products liability law is available to hold manufacturers accountable and ensure victims are properly compensated for the harm they have suffered.
Source: FindLaw, “Defects in Warnings,” Accessed May 30, 2016