Understanding Product Defect Injury Claims in California: What Every Consumer Should Know

Every year, thousands of Californians are injured by products they assumed were safe—everything from cars and medical devices to home appliances and children’s toys. When a product fails due to a defect in its design, manufacturing, or labeling, the consequences can be catastrophic. If you or a loved one has suffered harm from a defective product, you may have a right to compensation—and the experienced legal team at BD&J, PC, led by Michael Madadi, can help you navigate this complex area of law.

What is a Product Defect?

Under California law, a product is considered defective if it poses an unreasonable risk of harm when used as intended (or even as reasonably foreseeable). There are three main types of product defects:

Design Defect: The product is inherently dangerous due to its design, even if made perfectly to specifications. Examples include SUVs prone to rollover or medical devices with unsafe features.

Manufacturing Defect: The product’s design is safe, but an error during manufacturing makes certain units dangerous. This could involve contaminated medications, faulty wiring, or missing safety components.

Marketing/Labeling Defect (Failure to Warn): The product lacks adequate instructions or warnings about potential dangers. For instance, a power tool sold without warning about electrical hazards, or a medication without side effect disclosures.

Common Examples of Product Defect Claims

Product defect cases can arise from a wide range of products, such as:

• Auto parts (airbags, brakes, tires)
• Children’s toys and baby products
• Prescription drugs and medical devices
• Power tools and household appliances
• Food products with contamination or allergen risks

In many cases, injuries caused by defective products are severe—burns, fractures, brain injuries, amputations, and even wrongful death.

Who Can Be Held Liable?

One of the key strengths of California’s product liability law is the concept of “strict liability.” This means you do not need to prove negligence; if the product was defective and caused your injury, the responsible parties may be liable. Potentially liable parties include:

• The manufacturer
• Distributors and wholesalers
• Retailers who sold the product

Liability may apply to everyone in the product’s supply chain, which helps ensure that victims have a fair chance at recovering damages.

Steps to Take After a Defective Product Injury

1. Seek Medical Attention:
Your health comes first. Prompt care can minimize harm and document your injuries.

2. Preserve the Product:
Do not throw away or alter the defective item. Store it (and all packaging, instructions, and receipts) safely for evidence.

3. Document Everything:
Take photos of your injuries, the product, and the scene. Save medical records, purchase receipts, and communications with the seller or manufacturer.

4. Avoid Discussions With the Manufacturer or Insurer:
Do not give statements or accept a settlement without consulting an attorney.

5. Contact an Experienced Attorney:
A lawyer can launch an immediate investigation, secure expert analysis, and identify all potentially liable parties.

Damages You May Be Entitled To

Victims of defective product injuries can seek compensation for:

• Medical bills (current and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Emotional distress
• Property damage

If the defective product caused a fatal injury, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and more.

Why Choose Michael Madadi and BD&J, PC?

Product defect claims are some of the most challenging personal injury cases—manufacturers often have deep pockets and teams of attorneys to fight claims. Michael Madadi’s experience in complex litigation, combined with the resources of BD&J, PC, means your case gets the expert attention it deserves.

The firm will:

• Investigate your case using top engineers and product safety experts
• Gather evidence, including prior complaints or recalls involving the product
• Negotiate with manufacturers and insurers
• Take your case to trial if a fair settlement is not offered

Their commitment to justice has earned them recognition in the legal community and millions recovered for injury victims throughout California.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a product defect claim?
California’s statute of limitations for product liability claims is generally two years from the date of injury, but there are exceptions. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible to avoid missing critical deadlines.

What if I was using the product incorrectly?
You may still have a claim if your use was reasonably foreseeable. Even foreseeable misuse may not excuse a manufacturer’s responsibility for making a safe product.

Are recalls required for a valid claim?
No. Even if a product has not been officially recalled, you can file a claim if it was defective and caused injury.

Take the First Step Toward Justice

A defective product injury can leave you with unexpected medical bills, lost income, and long-term hardship. Don’t let manufacturers or big corporations avoid responsibility for your suffering. Contact Michael Madadi and the experienced team at BD&J, PC for a free consultation—and start your journey to justice and recovery.