You have a right to believe the products you find on store shelves are safe when they are used according to the directions on the packaging. If you were hurt or became ill after using a consumer product, you may be able to get compensation for your losses in civil court. A personal injury lawyer in Rocklin, CA can help you understand your rights and review your information to determine if filing a lawsuit is the best course of action in your case.
An attorney can explain the civil court process and may attempt to negotiate a settlement with the manufacturer of the defective product. Settling a claim is less expensive than a trial so your attorney may try this first to help you save money and get the most from your claim. It is important to know how much your claim is worth before you evaluate a settlement offer. Your lawyer may work with your doctors to find out how much you currently owe and the extent of future treatment you will need related to your illness or injury from the product.
Manufacturers have a duty to provide safe consumer products. A defect may be caused in any stage of the manufacturing process and your lawyer may need to work hard to determine whether the design, the manufacturing process or the distributor is to blame for defect. Knowing what caused a product to be defective can help a lawyer know who to sue as well as help the manufacturer correct their issues so no one else is affected by the defect.
A plaintiff does not have to prove that negligence caused their injury. You merely have to show the court that your injury was caused by the product. If a settlement that you find reasonable cannot be reached, your personal injury lawyer in Rocklin CA may take your case to trial. A judge or jury will then decide whether a product defect caused your injuries and how much the defendant has to pay you in damages. If you win your case and the defendant appeals the judgment, your attorney may represent you through the appeals process.