If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product, you deserve justice. Companies that put unsafe products on the market must be held accountable. At Shea Law Group, we are committed to helping you recover the compensation you need to move forward. Our experienced attorneys will guide you through the process and work to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Understanding Product Liability
Manufacturers, retailers, and distributors are responsible for ensuring their products are safe. When they fail, the consequences can be serious—leading to medical bills, lost wages, and unnecessary hardship. Our Chicago products liability law experts are here to help you through it.
Types of Defective Product Cases We Handle
There are three primary types of product defects that can lead to serious injuries:
- Manufacturing Defects
- Design Defects
- Warning/Labeling Defects
Each type presents unique risks and legal considerations. Below, we explain these categories and provide real-world examples of how they can cause harm.
Examples of Manufacturing Defects
Manufacturing defects occur when a product is improperly assembled or produced, making it dangerous for consumers. Some common examples include:
- Contaminated Medications – Prescription drugs tainted during production, causing unexpected health risks.
- Faulty Airbags – Airbags that deploy too forcefully or fail to deploy in an accident.
- Cracked or Weak Materials – Structural weaknesses in ladders, car frames, or appliances that lead to sudden failures.
- Improperly Wired Electronics – Household devices or power tools with faulty wiring, increasing fire hazards.
- Defective Food Packaging – Food items exposed to contaminants due to improper sealing or production errors.
Examples of Design Defects
Design defects occur when a product is inherently dangerous due to flaws in its blueprint, making all units unsafe. Some common examples include:
- Unstable Furniture – Dressers or bookshelves prone to tipping over due to poor weight distribution.
- Vehicles Prone to Rollovers – SUVs or trucks with a high center of gravity, increasing accident risks.
- Unsafe Child Products – Car seats or cribs with structural weaknesses leading to injuries.
- Defective Firearms – Guns that discharge unintentionally due to poor trigger design.
- Overheating Batteries – Lithium-ion batteries that pose a fire hazard due to inadequate thermal management.
Read our expert blog for more information on design defects.
Examples of Warning/Labeling Defects
Warning defects arise when manufacturers fail to provide adequate instructions or safety warnings, leading to misuse and injury. Some common examples include:
- Medications Without Side Effect Warnings – Failing to list severe health risks or interactions.
- Industrial Equipment Lacking Safety Labels – Machines missing clear instructions on proper use.
- Household Chemicals Without Proper Warnings – Cleaning products missing hazard symbols or protective handling instructions.
- Toys Without Choking Hazard Labels – Small parts not clearly marked as dangerous for young children.
- Electronics Without Shock Hazard Warnings – Devices that require specific precautions to prevent electric shocks or burns.
The Relationship Between Product Liability and Personal Injury
We have successfully represented personal injury clients injured by:
- Defective Auto Parts – Brakes, airbags, and tires that fail when you need them most.
- Dangerous Pharmaceuticals – Prescription drugs with severe and unexpected side effects.
- Toxic Household Products – Cleaners, cosmetics, or toys containing harmful chemicals.
- Faulty Machinery & Tools – Equipment that malfunctions and causes serious harm.
- Unsafe Medical Devices – Pacemakers, hip replacements, or implants that fail.
If you’ve been harmed by a defective product, we are ready to advocate for you.
How We Approach Product Liability Cases
Every product liability case is unique. At Shea Law Group, we take a strategic approach to ensure the best outcome for our clients. Our process includes:
Comprehensive Investigation
We meticulously gather all relevant evidence from sources like:
- Product defect reports
- Manufacturer records
- Expert analyses
- Witness testimonies
Expert Consultations
Our team works with industry professionals, including:
- Engineers
- Medical experts
- Safety specialists
We do this to prove the defect and establish how it caused your injury.
Holding Companies Accountable
We aggressively pursue claims against negligent manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. We will do everything we can to hold them legally responsible for the damage they’ve caused.
Maximizing Compensation
Beyond medical expenses, we fight for damages that cover:
- Lost wages
- Ongoing rehabilitation costs
- Pain and suffering
- Future losses related to your injury
Client-Focused Representation
We prioritize clear communication and transparency throughout your case. We want you to understand the process and feel confident in your legal strategy.
Negotiation and Litigation
We are skilled negotiators who strive to secure fair settlements. If necessary, we are fully prepared to fight for your compensation in court.
Compassionate Support
We understand that navigating a legal battle while recovering from an injury can be overwhelming. Our team is here to provide support, answer your questions, and guide you through the process with care.
Why Clients Trust Shea Law Group
Choosing the right attorney for your product liability case is critical. Here’s why Shea Law Group stands out.
Dedicated Representation
We take on corporations and insurance companies so you don’t have to. Our team is committed to aggressively pursuing justice on your behalf and holding negligent manufacturers accountable.
Personalized Support
We understand the needs of families in Chicago and provide compassionate legal guidance. Every client is treated with respect and receives the attention their case deserves.
Proven Legal Strategy
Our firm conducts thorough investigations, consults expert witnesses, and builds strong cases to maximize your compensation. We ensure no detail is overlooked.
Experience in Product Liability Cases
With years of experience handling defective product claims, we have successfully helped clients recover damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
Commitment to Justice
We believe that corporations should be held accountable when they put profits over safety. Our mission is to secure fair compensation and justice for every client we represent.