When you purchase a product, you expect it to function as advertised and not cause any harm. Unfortunately, defective products can cause injury or even death in some instances. If you have been injured due to a defective product in Mississippi, there are certain steps that you can take to protect your rights.
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Seek Medical Attention Immediately
If you have been injured due to a defective product, seeking medical attention should be your top priority. Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries may not become apparent until later on. By seeking medical attention immediately, you can receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan that could potentially save your life.
Preserve The Defective Product
Preserving the defective product that caused your injury is crucial. If possible, keep it in the same condition as it was when it caused your injury. This will allow your lawyer to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the defect. If the product is lost or destroyed, your case could become significantly more difficult to pursue.
Keep Records
Keep all records related to the incident and your injury. This includes medical records, receipts for related expenses, photographs of the injury and the product that caused it, and any communication you have had with the manufacturer or seller. This information will help your attorney build a strong case on your behalf.
Contact An Attorney
Getting legal advice from an experienced Mississippi product liability attorney should be your next step. An attorney can review your case and advise you on your next steps. Whether you need to file a lawsuit or settle your claim outside of court, an attorney can represent you and fight for your rights.
Product Liability Law In Mississippi
Mississippi product liability law follows the strict liability standard, which means that manufacturers and sellers can be held liable for selling a product that is unreasonably dangerous and causes injury or harm. There are three types of defects that can result in product liability claims:
Design Defects
Design defects are inherent in the product design itself, making it unreasonably dangerous. These defects apply to all products of the same type.
Manufacturing Defects
Manufacturing defects occur during the product’s manufacturing process, making it different from how it was supposed to be. These defects only apply to some products within a specific line.
Marketing Defects
Marketing defects refer to improper labeling, inadequate instructions or warnings, or misrepresenting a product’s safety.
Statute Of Limitations
Mississippi has a three-year statute of limitations for product liability claims. This means that you have three years from the time of injury to file a lawsuit. Waiting too long to file can result in the dismissal of your case, so it is essential to get legal advice as soon as possible.
Compensation For Injuries From Defective Products
If you have been injured by a defective product, you may be entitled to compensation for the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
In some cases, you may also seek punitive damages if the manufacturer or seller acted recklessly or intentionally concealed information about the danger of the product.
Conclusion
If you have been injured due to a defective product, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of your next steps. By seeking medical attention, preserving the defective product, keeping records, contacting an attorney, understanding product liability law, and seeking compensation for your injuries, you can hold the responsible parties accountable and obtain the justice you deserve.