As consumers, we put our trust and our hard-earned money into companies every single day in the hopes that the product or service we’re paying for will contribute to our lives in a positive way. In reality, it almost always works out. Unfortunately, there are plenty of cases where that trust is broken and consumers are left injured by the very products they placed their trust and hopes in.
Product liability or defective product incidents often stem from careless manufacturing practices, poor design, or a blatant disregard for safety. When this happens, individuals are left with more than just disappointment — they face real physical harm. At HB Law Partners, we want to help the people of Oklahoma recover financially and get the compensation they deserve when a defective product injures them or their loved ones.
- Seek Medical Care
Your physical health comes first. When a defective product causes injury, the first step is to seek medical care right away. Even if your injury seems minor, it’s essential to have a healthcare professional evaluate your condition. Some injuries may not appear right away, as well, and delaying treatment can worsen your condition. Do not underestimate your injuries.
Timely medical care and documentation strengthen your claim. It connects your injury directly to the defective product, giving your legal team critical evidence to support your case. Protect your health and your rights by prioritizing medical care after any product-related injury.
- Contact an Oklahoma Product Liability Attorney
Taking legal action against the parties responsible for a defective product is often a layered challenge. There are often several parties involved when determining liability, making it essential to consult with an experienced product liability attorney early on.
In some cases, the company you bought the product from may not be solely responsible. The manufacturer, the facility where the product was produced, and/or even the company that shipped it could bear some liability. An Oklahoma product liability attorney will help sort through these details and ensure that all responsible parties are identified and held accountable.
- Report the Incident to the Company
Once your health is taken care of and you’ve spoken with an attorney, it’s necessary to report the incident to the company that made or sold the defective product. This step is crucial, and it’s almost always a good idea to try to remedy the issue before rushing to pursue the hard path of litigation. Some companies may act quickly to compensate you before it ever reaches the courts. You should consult with your attorney before considering any offers made.
Filing a report helps initiate the investigation into what went wrong and whether the product in question has harmed others. It also helps ensure all important evidence is preserved. Before making that call or submitting your claim, it’s a good idea to talk to your attorney. They can help guide you on what to say and what to avoid, ensuring that your report actually supports your case. Including unnecessary details or admitting fault, even accidentally, can hurt your claim.
- Let Your Attorney Take It From There
Once you’ve reported the issue, your biggest role is to provide any necessary information and documentation to allow your attorney to manage the case moving forward. Any communications with any involved parties should be guided through your attorney to avoid handcuffing their legal options.
Social media posts, casual conversations, or even well-intentioned comments about your case can end up harming your claim. Insurance companies and manufacturers often scour the internet for anything that could weaken your case—their legal teams are often huge. By keeping a low profile and following your attorney’s advice, you’ll protect your claim while focusing on your physical recovery.
When you’re ready to take action against a company for injuries caused by a defective product in Oklahoma, contact HB Law Partners to discuss your options and take the next steps toward recovery.