Coopers LLP represents individuals and families statewide in product liability matters involving design defects, manufacturing defects, and failure-to-warn claims. Our attorneys investigate product defects, identify potentially responsible parties, and pursue the compensation available under California law.
California product liability lawyers and attorneys at Coopers LLP
If a dangerous or defective product caused serious injuries or took the life of a loved one, Coopers LLP is here to help. Unlike many personal injury cases that focus on a negligent individual, product liability claims center on defective or unreasonably dangerous products and the companies responsible for selling them. Under California product liability law, many claims proceed under strict liability, which can hold companies responsible for design, manufacturing, or failure-to-warn defects that cause harm when the product is used in a reasonable way.
How product liability works under California law
Product liability claims are based on the defective or unreasonably dangerous condition of a product. California law recognizes several types of defects that may form the basis of a product liability claim.
Defects generally fall into three categories:
- Design defects: The product’s design itself is unsafe, even when manufactured as intended.
- Manufacturing defects: Something goes wrong during production or assembly, causing the product to differ from its intended design.
- Failure-to-warn defects: The product lacks adequate warnings, instructions, or safety information about known or foreseeable risks.
Under California product liability law, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers in a product’s distribution chain may be held liable if a defective product causes harm.
Statute of limitations for California product liability claims
California law limits the amount of time an injured person has to file a product liability lawsuit. In many cases, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the injury. However, exceptions may apply depending on the circumstances of the case, including when the injury was discovered or who is involved.
Important evidence may become more difficult to preserve as time passes. Defective products can be repaired, altered, discarded, or lost, and records may become harder to obtain. Speaking with an attorney as soon as possible can help protect evidence and evaluate any deadlines that may apply to your situation.
Common defective product accidents and cases in California
Coopers LLP handles a wide range of defective product cases across California. These matters often involve everyday consumer products as well as specialized equipment used in workplaces, construction settings, and recreational activities. Defective products can cause serious harm, including burns, amputations, crush injuries, toxic exposures, electrical shocks, catastrophic injuries, and wrongful death.
Examples of product liability cases we handle:
- Defective motor vehicles and vehicle components
- Dangerous consumer products and household goods
- Defective industrial and construction equipment
- Faulty electrical products and appliances
- Defective recreational and sporting equipment
- Products with inadequate warnings or instructions
Coopers LLP investigates the circumstances surrounding an injury and pursues claims against potentially responsible parties.
Compensation Available After a Product Liability Case
A product liability claim may involve several categories of damages, depending on the nature of the injury, the available evidence, and the specific facts of the case. California law may allow injured individuals or surviving family members to pursue compensation for both financial and personal losses caused by a defective product.
Economic damages
These damages relate to measurable financial losses, such as:
- Medical bills and ongoing treatment expenses
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Lost wages and lost earning capacity
- Future medical care needs
- Property damage related to the incident
Non-economic damages
These damages address the personal impact of an injury, including:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Physical impairment or disfigurement
Punitive damages
In limited circumstances, California courts may award punitive damages when a defendant’s conduct goes beyond ordinary negligence and shows a reckless disregard for the safety of others. These damages are intended to punish wrongful conduct and discourage similar behavior in the future. Punitive damages are not available in every case and depend on the specific facts and applicable law.
Serving injured clients across California
Coopers LLP represents individuals and families throughout California who have been harmed by defective or dangerous products. Our attorneys handle product liability claims involving consumer goods, industrial equipment, vehicle components, and other products that may cause serious injuries or wrongful death. We investigate the circumstances surrounding an injury and pursue claims against potentially responsible parties under California product liability law.
If you were injured by a defective product or if you lost a loved one because of a dangerous product, Coopers LLP can help you understand your legal options. We work exclusively on a contingency fee basis for injury cases, which means you pay no attorney fees or costs unless we recover compensation for you. Our fee is typically a percentage of the recovery. In some cases, clients may be responsible for prevailing-party costs as determined by law. Contact Coopers LLP today for a 100% free consultation.