When we buy a product, we expect it to function properly and safely. However, sometimes products are defective, which can lead to personal injury. In 2019, the Consumer Product Safety Commission estimated that there were 240,000 injuries caused by defective products that required emergency room treatment. These injuries can be serious and even life-threatening.
Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to protect yourself from personal injury caused by defective products. In this article, we will discuss what you can do before you buy a product, when you use a product, and if you are injured by a product.
Before You Buy a Product
Research the product
Before you buy a product, do some research to find out if there have been any recalls or safety warnings about the product. You can check the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website for information about product recalls and safety alerts.Look for safety certifications
When you are shopping for a product, look for safety certifications such as the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) mark or the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) label. These certifications indicate that the product has been tested and meets certain safety standards.Read the instructions and warnings
Before you use a product, read the instructions carefully and look for any warnings or precautions. Follow the instructions closely and heed any warnings to avoid injury.
When You Use a Product
Use the product as intended
To avoid injury, use the product as intended and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid using the product in a way that it was not designed for.Inspect the product
Inspect the product before you use it to make sure that it is in good condition and free from defects. Check for any loose or broken parts, cracks, or other damage.Keep an eye on children
If the product is intended for use by children, supervise them closely and make sure that they are using the product safely. Avoid letting young children play with small parts that could be a choking hazard.
If You are Injured by a Product
Seek medical attention
If you are injured by a product, seek medical attention right away. Even if the injury seems minor at first, it could be more serious than you think.Preserve the evidence
If possible, keep the product and any packaging or instructions that came with it. Take photos of the product and your injuries.Report the incident
Report the incident to the manufacturer or retailer where you bought the product. You can also report the incident to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Reporting the incident can help prevent others from being injured by the same product.Contact a personal injury lawyer
If you have been injured by a defective product, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your options.
In conclusion, protecting yourself from personal injury caused by defective products requires taking steps before and after you buy a product. By doing research, using the product as intended, and seeking medical attention if you are injured, you can reduce the risk of injury and hold manufacturers accountable for defective products.