Defective Products Law - State Laws And The Uniform Federal Act
Ordinarily, product liability lawsuits are regulated by state law - both statutory acts and common law
established by court decisions. In addition, the US Department of Commerce encourages all states to adopt,
in whole or in part, the provisions of the Model Uniform Products Liability Act (MUPLA). Adoption of MULPA
laws is voluntary, and is intended to establish a consistent national standard for industries. Liability
generally requires that an injured party prove the existence of an unreasonably dangerous that poses an
unacceptable threat of harm to consumers. Parties that may be held liable include designers, manufactures,
builders, wholesalers, retails, advertising firms, and other interested parties who, with the expectation of
profit, make materially misleading or false representations regarding the suitability or safety of a
particular product for a specific use.
Plaintiff Damages Allowed Under Defective Products Law
Today, with the enthusiastic support of the Bush administration, product liability laws are becoming less
effective for consumers. Large corporations now enjoy the proliferation of exceptions to liability, limits
on damages which may be recovered, and excessive procedural requirements as a condition precedent to filing
suit. These amendments are intended for one purpose: to allow large corporations to escape equal
responsibility under the law. Nevertheless, a talented personal injury lawyer who will press for trial, can
negate the administrative bias against consumers and require damages to be assessed by a local jury based
upon the unique facts and circumstance of each case.
See also: Plaintiff recoveries under product liability laws for personal injuries. - lawyer search issues.
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