Product Liability Attorney in Kansas City, MO
Practice Areas
When you purchase a product, you expect it to be safe for use. Unfortunately, some products fail to meet this expectation, and defective or hazardous items can sometimes cause serious injuries or worse. If this occurs, you may be eligible for compensation under state product liability law. This area of law exists to hold manufacturers, distributors, and retailers responsible for any harm caused by their products.
As the founding attorney of McGreevy Law, LLC, I’ve dedicated my practice to helping my clients hold manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers accountable when their negligence causes harm. Product liability cases require timely action, and I’m here to guide you through these challenges. Located in Kansas City, Missouri, I serve clients throughout the Kansas City metro area. Contact me today to schedule a consultation.
What Is Product Liability?
Product liability refers to the legal responsibility of manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, or retailers for injuries caused by defective or unsafe products. Unlike general negligence cases, product liability often focuses on the inherent dangers of the product itself rather than the company's behavior. There are three main types of defective product claims that include the following.
Design defects: These occur when a fundamental flaw exists in a product's design. Even if the product is manufactured correctly, its design defects render it inherently unsafe or unfit for its intended purpose.
Manufacturing defects: These arise when a product is designed correctly, but a manufacturing error introduces a hazardous defect. For example, a batch of contaminated medicines produced during manufacturing could lead to harmful side effects.
Failure to warn or market defects: These claims arise when a product lacks adequate instructions or warnings about potential risks. For instance, if a cleaning product doesn’t include clear warnings about toxic fumes, the company may be held liable for injuries resulting from its use.
Defective products can result in minor to more serious injuries. If you or someone you know has been injured after using a product, reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
Injured by a Faulty Product?
What Sets Product Liability Cases Apart
Unlike many other types of personal injury claims, product liability doesn’t always require proof of negligence. These cases typically involve strict liability; if a product is defective and causes harm, the manufacturer or distributor can be held responsible, regardless of whether negligence occurred.
This strict liability principle tends to complicate product liability claims. Proving that a product defect led to an injury can involve highly technical details and expert testimony. That’s why it's important to consult with an experienced attorney to secure the best possible outcome.
Product Liability Laws in Missouri
Missouri follows the doctrine of strict liability in product liability cases. To have a valid claim, you must demonstrate that the product was defective, the defect directly caused your injury, and you were using the product as intended. Some critical aspects of Missouri law to keep in mind include the following.
Statute of limitations: Under Missouri law, you generally have five years from the date of the injury to file a product liability lawsuit. Missing this deadline can result in the loss of your right to pursue compensation, so it’s critical to act promptly.
Contributory negligence: Missouri adheres to a pure comparative fault system, meaning your compensation for an injury can be reduced based on the percentage of fault attributed to you. If you are partially responsible, your recovery amount will be adjusted accordingly.
Damages: Victims of defective products are entitled to recover a variety of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Missouri does not place a cap on non-economic damages in product liability cases, except in cases involving medical malpractice.
The Importance of Pursuing Damages After a Product-Related Injury
Suffering an injury from a defective product can have profound, life-changing effects. Mounting medical bills, lost income during recovery, and the physical and emotional strain can feel overwhelming. Pursuing a product liability claim isn’t just about financial compensation; it’s about accountability.
By holding manufacturers or distributors responsible, you encourage safer practices and help prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. At McGreevy Law, LLC, I’ll help pursue justice and the compensation you deserve. Whether your case involves a manufacturing defect, dangerously designed product, or insufficient warnings, I have experience handling even the most complicated claims.
What to Do Immediately After a Product-Related Injury
After suffering an injury, it's common to feel stressed and confused. However, as a victim, there are several steps you can take to build a strong claim for compensation. While the specific steps you take may depend on the circumstances of your case, you should consider the following general steps.
Seek medical attention: Your health and safety should always be your top priority. Document your injuries and follow all medical advice.
Preserve the defective product: If possible, keep the product in its original condition, along with any packaging or instructions. These can serve as critical evidence in your case.
Document everything: Take photographs of your injuries, the product, and the scene where the incident occurred. Keep a record of medical visits and expenses related to the injury.
Refrain from making statements: Avoid discussing your case with insurance companies or the manufacturer without an attorney present. Any statement you make could potentially be used against you in court.
Seek legal advice: Hire an experienced attorney as soon as possible. They can guide you on preserving evidence, meeting deadlines, and building a solid case.
Product Liability Attorney Serving Kansas City, Missouri
When a defective product disrupts your life, it's crucial to have legal representation grounded in experience and compassion. At McGreevy Law, LLC, I provide thoughtful advice while diligently pursuing justice for individuals affected by unsafe products.
Based in Kansas City, Missouri, I represent clients throughout the Kansas City metro area as well as nationwide. If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product, contact me today to schedule an initial consultation.