The Application of Strict Liability in Florida Product Liability Law
Strict liability is a fundamental concept in Florida’s product liability law, providing a pathway for consumers to seek compensation for injuries caused by defective products without proving negligence. This principle holds manufacturers and sellers accountable for damages caused by their products, regardless of the care they took during manufacturing or selling. This blog explores the nuances of strict liability in Florida, explaining its importance and how it applies in product liability cases.
Strict liability refers to the legal responsibility of manufacturers, distributors, or sellers for damages or injuries their products cause, regardless of fault or intent. Unlike negligence, which requires showing that a manufacturer failed to exercise reasonable care, strict liability only necessitates proving that the product was defective and caused harm. This legal doctrine is designed to protect consumers by placing the burden of safety on those who design, manufacture, and market products.
In Florida, the application of strict liability ensures that consumers do not need to delve into the complexities of a manufacturer’s operations to claim damages. For a strict liability claim to be successful in Florida, the plaintiff must demonstrate three key elements: the product was defective, the defect existed when it left the manufacturer’s control, and the defect directly caused the injury.
Types of Product Defects Under Strict Liability
Florida recognizes three primary types of defects in product liability cases under strict liability: design defects, manufacturing defects, and marketing defects.
- Design Defects: These occur when a product’s design is inherently unsafe, even if manufactured correctly. For example, a car model designed with a fuel system that increases the risk of fire in a crash would be considered to have a design defect.
- Manufacturing Defects: These defects arise during the production process and result in products that deviate from the intended design. A defectively manufactured tire that blows out, causing an accident, is an example of a manufacturing defect.
- Marketing Defects: Also known as “failure to warn” defects, these occur when products lack the necessary instructions or warnings about potential risks. For instance, if a pharmaceutical company fails to warn about a drug’s severe side effects, it could be liable under strict liability for any resultant harm.
Proving Strict Liability in Florida
Proving strict liability in Florida requires a focused approach to evidence. Plaintiffs need to establish that the product was defective and that this defect caused their injury. Importantly, they do not need to prove that the manufacturer or distributor was negligent.
To prove strict liability in Florida, a clear and methodical presentation of evidence is essential. First, plaintiffs must demonstrate the presence of a defect in the product. This often involves securing expert testimony to clarify how the product deviated from accepted safety standards or its intended design. Next, it is crucial to establish a direct link between the defect and the injury incurred. This connection is typically supported by medical records, testimonies from expert witnesses, and other relevant evidence that confirms the injury was a direct result of the product’s defect. Finally, evidence must be presented to show that the product was not substantially altered from the time it was sold to the time the injury occurred. This helps ensure that the defect was indeed present when the product left the manufacturer, reinforcing the grounds for a strict liability claim.
Contact Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather, Florida Injury Lawyers
Strict liability is a vital aspect of Florida’s product liability law, simplifying the process for injured consumers to receive just compensation. At Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather, we are experienced and knowledgeable in navigating the complexities of strict liability claims to help our clients secure the outcomes they deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product, our experienced legal team is here to help.
Source:
law.cornell.edu/wex/products_liability
