Weston Product Liability Lawyer – Legal Help for Defective Product Claims

When you purchase a product, whether it’s a car seat, power tool, medication, or appliance, you expect it to be safe. But when a product malfunctions and causes harm, the consequences can be devastating. At Rafaeli Law PLLC, our Weston product liability lawyers fight for individuals and families who have been injured by defective and dangerous products.

We hold negligent manufacturers, distributors, and retailers accountable for putting profits over safety. If you or a loved one was injured by a faulty product, we’re here to help you pursue justice and compensation.

What Is Product Liability?

Product liability is an area of law that allows consumers to seek damages when they are harmed by dangerous or defective products. In Florida, a product liability case can be based on one of three legal theories:

  • Defective Design: The product was inherently unsafe due to its design, even if it was manufactured correctly. For example, a child’s toy with small parts that pose a choking hazard.
  • Manufacturing Defect: The product was designed safely, but a mistake during manufacturing made it dangerous. An example is a batch of contaminated prescription drugs.
  • Failure to Warn (Marketing Defect): The product lacked adequate instructions or warnings about known risks. A common example includes medications that do not list potential side effects.

Each of these categories plays a key role in determining who is liable and what compensation may be available. Our product liability attorneys in Weston investigate all aspects of the claim to build the strongest possible case.

Common Types of Product Liability Cases We Handle

At Rafaeli Law PLLC, our attorneys have represented clients in a wide range of product liability claims. Some of the most common include:

  • Defective Auto Parts: Such as faulty airbags, brakes, or steering components that lead to catastrophic car accidents.
  • Dangerous Children’s Products: Like cribs, car seats, or toys that pose suffocation, strangulation, or choking risks.
  • Toxic or Recalled Medications: Prescription and over-the-counter drugs that cause unexpected side effects or fail to include adequate warnings.
  • Defective Appliances and Electronics: Such as space heaters, pressure cookers, and other items that cause fires, burns, or explosions.
  • Unsafe Tools or Industrial Equipment: Equipment lacking proper guards or controls that injure workers or consumers.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there were more than 12 million product-related injuries treated in U.S. emergency rooms in a recent year.

Florida Product Liability Law – What Victims Need to Know

Florida law supports consumer rights through strict liability rules, meaning you don’t have to prove the manufacturer was negligent, just that the product was defective and caused your injury.

However, there are deadlines and legal complexities to consider:

  • Statute of Limitations: Victims generally have 4 years from the date of injury to file a product liability lawsuit in Florida.
  • Comparative Fault: If a victim is partially at fault (e.g., misusing the product), compensation may be reduced.
  • Economic vs. Non-Economic Damages: Florida law allows for recovery of both tangible losses (like medical bills and lost wages) and intangible losses (like pain and suffering).

Consult our experienced personal injury lawyers in Weston to protect your rights.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Defective Product?

A successful product liability claim requires identifying all parties responsible for the product’s defect. These may include:

  • Product Manufacturer: Often the primary defendant, especially if the flaw originated in design or production.
  • Parts or Component Suppliers: If a specific component (e.g., a lithium battery) caused the defect.
  • Retailer or Distributor: The party that sold the product may also be held liable for placing a dangerous item into consumer hands.
  • Testing Laboratories or Certifiers: If an independent tester falsely verified the product as safe.

Product liability cases are often complex and involve expert testimony. Our attorneys collaborate with product engineers, medical experts, and safety consultants to build strong claims.

Overview of Product Liability Law in Florida

Category

Details

Main Legal Theories

Design Defect: Product is inherently unsafe due to poor design.

Manufacturing Defect: Error during production.

Failure to Warn: Inadequate instructions or safety warnings.

Common Liable Parties

– Manufacturer

– Distributor

– Retailer

– Component Supplier

– Testing Lab or Certifier

Examples of Defective Products

– Airbags failing to deploy

– Medications causing undisclosed side effects

– Electronics causing fires

– Toys with choking hazards

Statute of Limitations (FL)

4 years from the date of injury (under Florida Statute § 95.11(3))

Burden of Proof

Florida follows strict liability for product defects, plaintiffs must prove the product was defective and caused the injury, not negligence.

Types of Recoverable Damages

– Medical bills

– Lost wages

– Pain and suffering

– Property damage

– Punitive damages (in cases of egregious misconduct)

Comparative Fault Rule

Florida uses modified comparative negligence; if you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover damages (as of March 2023).

What Compensation Can I Recover in a Product Liability Case?

Compensation varies based on the severity of injuries and financial impact. However, victims may be entitled to:

  • Medical Expenses: Emergency treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, and future care costs
  • Lost Wages: If the injury caused you to miss work or lose earning capacity
  • Pain and Suffering: Emotional trauma, loss of enjoyment of life, and psychological impacts
  • Property Damage: If the defective product caused damage to personal belongings
  • Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct

Steps to Take After Being Injured by a Defective Product

If you or a loved one has been injured, here are key steps to protect your rights:

  1. Preserve the Product: Keep the defective item in its original condition, along with packaging and receipts.
  2. Seek Medical Attention: Immediate care documents your injuries and creates vital medical records.
  3. Avoid Talking to Insurance Companies Alone: Insurance representatives may try to limit your claim—consult an attorney first.
  4. Document Everything: Take photos, collect witness info, and maintain a journal of symptoms and expenses.
  5. Call a Product Liability Attorney: Get a free consultation to understand your legal options.

Our contact page makes it easy to reach out for confidential advice.

Why Choose Rafaeli Law PLLC as Your Personal Injury Lawyer

Our firm has built a reputation for tough, effective, and ethical legal representation in complex product liability cases. Here’s why clients choose us:

  • Local Insight & Experience: Based in Weston, we understand the nuances of Florida product liability law.
  • Contingency Fee Basis: You pay nothing unless we win your case.
  • Proven Results: Our testimonials and case results speak for themselves.
  • Aggressive Representation: We don’t back down from large corporations or their insurers.
  • Compassionate Service: We treat every client with the dignity and respect they deserve.

Learn more about our mission and principles by visiting Our Story & Core Values.

Speak with a Weston Product Liability Lawyer Today

Defective products cause thousands of injuries each year, but you don’t have to suffer in silence. Whether you were harmed by a defective medical device, unsafe appliance, or mislabeled product, Rafaeli Law PLLC can help.

We offer free consultations, no upfront fees, and direct access to an experienced attorney who will personally handle your case.

Contact our Weston product liability attorneys today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What qualifies as a product liability case in Florida?

A product liability case arises when a consumer is injured by a defective product, which could be due to a design flaw, manufacturing error, or failure to warn of risks. In Florida, these claims fall under strict liability, meaning you don’t need to prove the manufacturer was negligent, just that the defect caused your injury.

2. Who can be held responsible in a Weston product liability lawsuit?

Multiple parties may be liable, including the product manufacturer, parts supplier, distributor, and even the local retailer in Weston who sold you the product. An experienced product liability lawyer can investigate your case and identify all potentially liable entities.

3. How long do I have to file a defective product claim in Florida?

Under Florida law, you typically have four years from the date of injury to file a product liability claim. However, it’s best to consult a Weston-based product liability attorney as soon as possible to preserve evidence and avoid delays.

4. What damages can I recover in a Weston product liability case?

You may be eligible to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and, in cases of gross negligence, punitive damages. Each case is unique, and a local attorney can help assess the full value of your claim.

5. Do I need to keep the defective product for my case?

Yes, preserving the defective product in its original condition is critical. It serves as primary evidence in proving your case. If you’ve been injured in Weston by a faulty item, store it securely and consult an attorney before taking further action.

6. How much does it cost to hire a product liability lawyer in Weston?

At Rafaeli Law PLLC, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing up front. We only collect a fee if we successfully win compensation for your case. This allows you to pursue justice without financial strain.

7. What are common examples of defective products in Florida lawsuits?

Cases in Weston and across Florida often involve defective auto parts (airbags, brakes), unsafe children’s toys, recalled medications, faulty electronics, and hazardous household appliances. Check the CPSC recall list regularly to stay informed.

8. Why should I hire a local Weston product liability lawyer?

Hiring a local attorney ensures they understand Florida-specific laws, court procedures, and how local insurers and defense firms operate. Rafaeli Law PLLC is based right here in Weston and offers personalized, accessible support throughout your case.

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If you are facing a personal injury or insurance dispute, Rafaeli Law PLLC is here to help. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you secure the compensation you deserve.