Commerce is a part of daily life. From the toothpaste you use to the kind of car you drive, you expect manufacturers to produce relatively safe products and, at the least, not harm you. But unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
The unfortunate reality is that defective products are produced and recalled every year, causing unnecessary and devastating harm to the public.
When this happens, our attorneys at Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers aren’t afraid to challenge these corporations and hold them liable for their mistakes. We’ll work hard to get you compensated for your injuries so that you can move on with your life.
We Make Companies Pay Up for Product Liability Injuries
On a basic level, companies are required to manufacture, distribute and sell safe products. When they don’t, they are liable for the damages under the Louisiana Products Liability Act (LPLA). Because injuries sustained due to product liability cases can differ in type and severity, compensation will also vary.
Our attorneys can ensure your injuries are accounted for by negotiating for every dollar possible in your claim. We’ll help you get compensated for losses like:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Disability
- Wrongful death
We have collected over $200 million in settlements for our clients across Louisiana, and we are confident that we can help you get the most out of your case. In fact, you won’t pay anything unless we win or settle.
Laborde Earles injury was great for me they took care of me very fast and professional. If for any reason I need legal help they will be who I use.
ClientWhat You Must Prove for a Product Liability Lawsuit in Louisiana
Manufacturers are strictly liable for damages caused as a result of their products. So, for example, if a lotion caused severe burns when applied to the skin or you developed cancer as a result of a household cleaner, the company can be held liable in court.
However, as a claimant, you have the responsibility to prove that:
- The product was “unreasonably dangerous.”
- The dangerous condition existed at the time it left the manufacturer.
- You did not alter the product in any way.
- You were injured due to the dangerous condition and suffered damages as a result.
To do so, you must provide sufficient evidence to back your claim. This can include medical records, expert witness testimony, the defective product, and internal documents from the manufacturer. Our team can help you secure the needed evidence to build a solid case.
Types of Product Defects
According to LPLA, the product must have one of the following four characteristics to be considered “unreasonably dangerous.”
- Defective manufacture – The product is flawed because of an error during the manufacturing process.
- Defective design – The product is designed poorly, making it inherently dangerous or defective.
- Failure to warn or instruct – The product is dangerous in a way that is not obvious without warnings or instruction.
- Breach of warranty – “The product does not conform to an express warranty of the manufacturer about the product.”
The defense may argue that you misused the product, modified it or that you assumed the risk of using the product to keep from paying you for your injuries. But, again, our attorneys can help you build a strong case so you don’t lose out on the money you’re entitled to.
I thank God for Digger & David. I don’t know what we would have done if it hadn’t have been for them.
Rick Smith | ClientThere May Be Multiple Negligent Parties in Your Case
Depending on what stage of the supply chain the defect occurred, there may be multiple negligent parties in your case. In many cases, products will pass through several companies before ending up on the store’s shelves.
As a result, the following parties may be held responsible in your case:
- Product manufacturer
- Parts manufacturer
- Retailer
- Distributor
- Wholesaler
When you’ve suffered an injury, you need an attorney who is not afraid to do the difficult things and stand up to negligent companies. Our lawyers will help you determine the liable parties in your case and hold them accountable in court.
The reassurance from Digger and his staff gave me that renewed hope that it’s going to be okay down the road.
ClientYou Have Limited Time to File a Product Liability Lawsuit
You have one year following your accident to file a product liability lawsuit. The court will not award more time due to hospitalization, recovery, or unexpected events. While this may seem like a long time, it can take months to investigate, negotiate and build a winning case. Therefore, you must act quickly or face losing your right to compensation altogether.
They treated us like no other people would. Whenever we needed something they were there for us. I put my trust in them and I don’t regret it.
ClientWe Handle All Types of Product Liability Cases
Negligence is not distinctive to one specific line of business. Instead, product liability claims can happen in any industry, making it ever more important for manufacturers to act responsibly, and to hold them accountable when they don’t.
Common product liability claims include:
- Medical devices (pacemakers, prosthetic limbs, etc.)
- Auto parts (brakes, tires, airbags, etc.)
- Medications
- Children’s toys
- Furniture
- Personal electronics
In our 350 years of combined legal experience, our firm has witnessed and represented thousands of product liability cases. As a result, we understand what it takes to win your case, and we’re determined to see it through from beginning to end.
A Breaux Bridge Product Liability Lawyer Can Help Your Case
Taking on a manufacturer is not easy. They have ample resources at their disposal and a team of legal advisors. Taking on your case alone can be detrimental.
We’ve seen the tactics they use, and our attorneys can be proactive and support you by:
- Conducting an investigation
- Identifying liable parties
- Collecting evidence
- Valuing your damages
- Leading negotiations
- Filing a lawsuit, if necessary
Although many product liability claims will settle out of court to avoid a trial, it’s not guaranteed. If it doesn’t settle, you need a team prepared to fight on your behalf in court. Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers is that team.
Make Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers Your First Call After You Get Hurt
When you or a loved one is injured by a dangerous product, you can get compensated for your injuries. Our attorneys at Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers are committed to helping injury victims claim their life back. Call today to get your free case evaluation.