What You Should Know About Filing a Product Liability Claim in Ohio
Manufacturers and suppliers have an ethical and legal obligation to provide reasonably safe products. Even so, Ohio consumers are exposed to a number of dangerous and unsafe products each year.
You may have the right to pursue compensation if you can prove a product was directly tied to your recent illness or injury. These cases carry a substantial burden of proof, and there is a very brief period in which you can take action. However, a successful case may result in compensation to address your medical costs, lost wages, and even pain and suffering.
Read the overview below to gain a better understanding of your rights and whether it is in your best interest to contact a lawyer.
For a free legal consultation with a product liability attorney in Columbus, call (614) 538-1116
What types of products can be included in a claim?
Ohio’s product liability laws are covered under Ohio Revised Codes 2307. This statute defines a product as “any object, substance, mixture or raw material that constitutes tangible personal property.” It must be something that is “produced, manufactured or supplied for introduction into trade or commerce.”
Practically speaking, this can include a wide range of products such as:
- defective automotive parts (brakes, tires and so on);
- dangerous drugs (over-the-counter or prescription drugs);
- children’s toys or clothing;
- household products;
- electronics;
- furniture;
- food products; and
- more.
A lawyer can clarify whether an item is covered under Ohio’s rather broad definition of “product.”
Columbus Product Liability Attorney (614) 538-1116
How much time do I have to file my product liability claim?
The state’s statute of limitations is covered under Ohio Code 2305.10(A). This gives you a two-year time period after the point of injury in which to initiate a product liability action. You risk your right to financial recovery if you fail to meet this deadline.
Regardless of the time limits, it is in your best interest to contact a lawyer promptly. He or she can ensure you file your claim in accordance with Ohio’s laws. Meanwhile, your legal team also can locate and secure all applicable evidence and witnesses necessary to build a substantial case.
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Who can be liable in a claim?
Your claim may include any parties who were liable for the product’s defect and your subsequent injuries. Potential defendants may include the:
- designer;
- manufacturer;
- supplier;
- marketer (especially if it failed to include a suitable product warning or instructions);
- shipper; and
- retailer.
A product liability claim may include a number of defendants, including national or international corporations. Your claim or lawsuit must draw a direct connection between a party’s actions (or negligence) and your damages.
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Should I hire a lawyer?
Many victims choose to hire a product liability attorney because of the complexity of these cases. You should consider hiring a lawyer if:
- your injuries have forced you to miss work;
- you have medical bills totaling several thousand dollars or more;
- you have proof of your injuries and financial losses;
- you have suffered a residual or permanent injury; and/or
- you were in no way responsible for your injuries.
You may contact our offices to schedule a free consultation if you are prepared to learn more about your case. We are available by calling 614-379-6669. We are a premier personal injury and wrongful death law firm in State of Ohio handling cases in and around the Columbus area.
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