Defective products are a lot like roof leaks—most people don’t think about them until it’s too late.

Unfortunately, product recalls happen more often than you may think. In today’s consumer-driven world, almost anything can cause a defective product injury.

What’s more, the injuries themselves can vary from head injuries to chemical burns. The one thing they all have in common is that they offer you a chance to file a product liability claim.

Not sure how to get started? Here are four effective tips that will help you with filing product liability claims.

1. Understand the Laws

Before doing anything else, you should figure out which type of defect you’re dealing with.

It could be a manufacturing defect, which occurs during item production. In this case, the manufacturer may have used the wrong materials or didn’t follow the initial design.

It could also be a design defect. This involves many products getting manufactured with the same specific defect. This happens when the design team fails to adhere to proper specifications.

Finally, your defect could involve the lack of a proper warning on the product. If manufacturers don’t include the right warning labels on their items, they’re liable for injuries.

2. Keep the Product

Many product liability cases revolve around the product itself. In some cases, an expert witness will need to examine it down the road.

This is why you should always try to preserve evidence for claims. If the item is large enough, you may even want to keep it in storage.

Of course, preserving the product isn’t always possible. For example, your injuries could result from a piece of machinery or a faulty airbag. If this is the case, make sure to take as many photos as you can.

3. Document Everything

Preparing documentation that can help your case is a key part of any liability claim.

Start by collecting all medical records, bills, diagnoses, and proof of doctor visits. If you’re taking medication for your injuries, keep evidence of it. If the injuries caused you to miss work, gather tax forms for proof of lost wages.

Make sure to jot down any other ways the injury has affected your life. This can involve both physical pain and mental issues such as anxiety, PTSD, or depression.

4. Hire a Defective Product Lawyer

Once you collect as much evidence as you can, it’s time to find outside help. The best way to do so is to hire a liability lawyer.

If an insurance company wants to settle for less than you deserve, your lawyer will point it out. They’ll negotiate a proper settlement and, if needed, litigate your case in court.

Once you talk to your lawyer and show them the evidence, they’ll help you form a legal strategy. Keep in mind that many liability lawyers work on a contingency fee basis; if they don’t win the settlement, you don’t pay them.

More on Filing Product Liability Claims

As anyone who has gone through it will tell you, defective product injuries are no joke. They can affect your health, wellbeing, and employment. This is why you should do what you can to make sure your liability claim goes well.

Want to know more about filing product liability claims? Keep checking out our Legal section!