Overview
Consumers trust that the products they buy are safe. Unfortunately, defective products can cause serious injuries — from faulty electronics to unsafe baby gear. California law allows victims to pursue product liability claims under strict liability, meaning manufacturers and sellers can be held responsible even without proof of negligence.
Here’s what you need to know about defective product claims in California, including types of defects, filing requirements, and trusted resources.
⚠️ Common Types of Product Defects
Defective products often involve:
- Manufacturing defects — errors during production that make a product unsafe
- Design flaws — unsafe designs that harm users even when manufactured correctly
- Failure to warn — missing safety instructions or inadequate warnings about risks
- Packaging defects — unsafe labeling or improper safety seals
For more on consumer product safety, see the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the California Department of Consumer Affairs.
🧑💼 Strict Liability in California
California applies strict liability to product defect cases, meaning:
- Victims don’t need to prove negligence — only that the product was defective and caused harm
- Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers can all be held liable
- Claims may involve multiple parties in the supply chain
For more details, see the California Civil Jury Instructions on Product Liability.
🧾 Real-World Example: Defective Baby Stroller
A family purchased a stroller that collapsed unexpectedly, injuring their child. The defect was traced to a faulty locking mechanism.
We filed claims against both the manufacturer and retailer under strict liability. The case resulted in compensation for medical bills, emotional distress, and replacement costs.
🛡️ Filing a Product Liability Claim
Steps to protect your rights:
- Preserve the defective product — don’t throw it away
- Document injuries with medical records and photos
- Save receipts, packaging, and warranty information
- Check for recalls on the CPSC Recall Database
- Contact an attorney to evaluate liability and damages
📋 What to Do If You’re Injured by a Defective Product
- Seek immediate medical care for your injuries
- Report the defect to the manufacturer and the CPSC
- Avoid repairing or altering the product — it may be critical evidence
- File a complaint with the California Department of Consumer Affairs
- Consult an attorney before negotiating with insurers or manufacturers
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to prove negligence? No. California’s strict liability law means you only need to prove the product was defective and caused harm.
Can I sue both the manufacturer and retailer? Yes. Liability often extends to all parties in the supply chain, including distributors and retailers.
What damages can I recover? You may recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in some cases punitive damages.
What if the product was recalled? A recall strengthens your case but is not required. Even non‑recalled products can lead to liability claims.
👨⚖️ Why You Need a Lawyer
Product liability cases often involve large corporations and complex supply chains. Our attorneys:
- Investigate defects using expert testimony and engineering reports
- Preserve evidence and product samples for trial
- Navigate strict liability laws and consumer protection statutes
- Fight for full compensation, including punitive damages when appropriate
We’ve helped clients injured by defective products across California recover the justice they deserve.
📞 Call Infinity Law Group Today
If you’ve been injured by a defective product in California, don’t face manufacturers alone. We’ll help you understand your rights and build a strong case. 📲 Schedule your free consultation or call us directly at (925) 732-1188
