Injuries Caused by Defective Household Products: What You Need to Know

Manufacturers often have the best intentions when manufacturing household products, but sometimes their mistakes make the product defective. A defective product may not operate as intended and harm the user. Defective household products can cause severe injuries, such as serious burns, electrocution, or poisoning, that require extensive treatment like surgeries, long-term medication, and hospitalization.

This blog discusses what you should know about defective household product injuries, ways to protect yourself, and how to seek compensation through a product liability claim. Our Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law team can explain your rights and legal options and help you take the necessary steps to hold the manufacturer accountable.

We have a proven track record of successfully representing product liability victims and are confident in helping you achieve the best possible outcome. We offer free initial consultations, so call (713) 973-8888 or toll-free 1 (800) 444-5000 and begin your journey to getting justice.

Why Hire Our Texas Product Liability Lawyers for Your Case?

Since 1985, Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law firm has successfully represented Texas injury victims, including clients harmed by dangerous products. Our product liability attorneys are well-versed in Texas law and have the knowledge and resources to handle the most challenging cases, giving you the confidence that your case is in capable hands.

We are unafraid to go up against known household product brands and will aggressively fight for you to be compensated for the injuries you suffered. Our thorough investigation process (which includes working with experts to uncover vital evidence that proves the manufacturer’s negligence) will give you the confidence that we leave no stone unturned. Reach out to us if you want a chance of securing the maximum compensation.

Our team understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll a defective product can take on your life. We are committed to providing you with compassionate and personalized attention and ensuring that you feel cared for and understood throughout the legal process. 

Common Household Products That Can Cause Harm

Several household products can cause harm when defective, and the most common include the following:

• Microwaves
• Space heaters
• Ovens
• Washing machines and dryers
• Gas grills
• Coffee makers
• Refrigerators and freezers
• Vacuums
• Toasters
• Furniture and decor
• Hair dryers and straighteners
• Blenders.

In addition to the above, products such as video games, televisions, speakers, and children’s toys made with toxic materials can cause injuries. Defective cleaning products can also cause harm, including respiratory injuries and chemical burns.

Types of Defects in Household Products

Household products are likely to have one or more of the following defects:

Design Defects

A product’s design is defective if it is inherently unsafe for its intended use. Even if the product was manufactured correctly, it remains unsafe if the design defect is not addressed. This is why home appliances designed without adequate safety guards can cause injuries.

Manufacturing Defect

Manufacturing defects occur when a product’s design is not followed correctly during its manufacture. Using the wrong materials, improper wiring, or excluding a vital material or component are examples of manufacturing defects that can make a household product unsafe.

Failure to Warn (Marketing Defect)

Potentially dangerous products have a warning on the label to inform consumers of the risk they face if they use them. The warning could also be issued during marketing. Manufacturers do this to escape liability in case of an injury. However, manufacturers sometimes fail to warn consumers, causing them harm.

If a manufacturer fails to warn about a product defect and it causes injury or illness, you can sue them in a product liability injury claim. 

Common Dangerous Household Product Injuries

Again, defective household products can cause injuries. Below are common defective household product injuries and the appliances likely to cause them.

• Burns from faulty kitchen appliances
• Lacerations from defective glassware or knives
• Electrocution from malfunctioning electrical devices
• Poisoning from improperly labeled cleaning products
• Choking on small parts from poorly designed children’s toys
• Falls due to unstable furniture or step stools
• Chemical burns from leaking batteries
• Eye injuries from exploding aerosol cans
• Carbon monoxide poisoning from defective heating systems.

After an injury, seek medical attention immediately and keep the defective product in a safe place. You will need it when filing a claim with the manufacturer.

Steps to Protect Yourself From Defective Household Injury

You can protect yourself and your family from dangerous household product injuries by doing the following:

• Research products thoroughly before buying, reading reviews and safety ratings. Check for recalls or safety alerts.
• Read the user manual carefully and use the product as intended. If you misuse the product and suffer an injury, you might not receive compensation.
• Inspect products regularly for signs of wear, damage, or malfunction. Before using them, ensure that damaged parts are replaced or repaired.
• Register your products with the manufacturer to receive recall or safety updates.
• If you notice any defect, notify the manufacturer or retailer immediately. You can also file a complaint with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

Additionally, save receipts, user manuals, and warranty information for any appliance you buy. They are vital evidence when seeking compensation.

Seeking Compensation Through a Product Liability Injury Claim

When a defective product causes injury, you may be entitled to compensation through a product liability claim. These claims hold manufacturers, distributors, and retailers accountable for releasing unsafe products. You need representation from an experienced legal team and evidence to have a successful claim.

The proof needed in product liability injury claims are:

• Medical records detailing your injuries
• The defective product itself (if possible)
• Photos or videos of the injury and product
• Receipts, warranties, and product manuals
• Witness statements and expert opinions.

With this evidence, we can prove that:

• The product was defective.
• The defect caused your injury.
• You were using the product as intended or in a reasonably foreseeable manner.

We will hold manufacturers, distributors, or retailers responsible based on their degree of liability. If successful, you will receive economic and non-economic damages, covering lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering, among other damages.

Get Help From Our Experienced Product Liability Lawyers

Seeking compensation through a product liability claim can be a complex process, but it will be easier with the help of our team at Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law. We will handle your case effectively and advocate for your rights while you focus on your recovery. Contact us now  at (713) 973-8888 or toll-free 1 (800) 444-5000 for a free and confidential consultation.