What Is The Most Common Cause of Product Liability Claims?

From automobiles to electronics, toys to household appliances, we trust that these items have undergone rigorous quality control measures to ensure our safety. However, there are instances when products make their way to the market with flaws that can pose significant risks to consumers. These flaws, known as manufacturing defects, are a leading cause of injuries and subsequent product liability claims.

What are Manufacturing Defects?

Manufacturing defects are flaws or irregularities that occur in a product during its production process. These defects deviate from the product’s intended design and can range from issues with materials or components to errors in assembly or workmanship. Unlike design flaws, which originate in the initial product blueprint, manufacturing defects are specific to a particular batch or run of products.

They can lead to products that do not meet safety or quality standards, posing potential risks to consumers. Identifying and addressing manufacturing defects is crucial for ensuring that products meet the expected standards of safety and performance before they reach the hands of consumers.

The Most Common Causes of Manufacturing Defects

Material and Component Issues

One of the primary culprits behind manufacturing defects lies in the quality of materials and components used in the production process. Substandard materials or faulty components can compromise the integrity of a product. For example, a vehicle’s brake system could fail due to a defective brake pad, leading to potentially catastrophic consequences for the driver and passengers.

Poor Workmanship and Assembly

Even with top-quality materials, the final product is only as good as the workmanship and assembly process. Mistakes made during assembly, such as improper welding, incorrect fastening, or inadequate sealing, can result in products prone to failure or malfunction. This is particularly critical in industries like aerospace or healthcare, where precision and reliability are paramount.

Inadequate Quality Control Measures

Effective quality control procedures are the last line of defense against manufacturing defects. When companies cut corners or fail to implement rigorous quality checks, flawed products can make their way into the hands of consumers. This can have severe consequences, ranging from injury to property damage.

Design Flaws Amplified by Manufacturing

While design flaws fall more under the realm of design defects, they can be exacerbated by issues in the manufacturing process. For instance, if a product was designed with a weak point that wasn’t identified until production, it could lead to failures and accidents.

What are Product Liability Claims?

When consumers are harmed due to manufacturing defects, they have legal recourse through product liability claims. Manufacturers can be held responsible for any injuries or damages caused by their defective products. This can result in significant financial losses for companies, not to mention damage to their reputation. Injury victims have the right to recover compensation for any current and future medical expenses related to the incident, current and future lost income, pain and suffering, and more.  

If a defective product has harmed you or a loved one, speak to a trusted Philadelphia product liability lawyer in a free consultation. Contact Rosenbaum Injury Law today.