The Chain of Distribution in Product Liability

If you’ve been injured from a defective product, one of the first questions you may ask yourself is, “Who do I hold responsible?” There are a number of parties and entities that play a role in the creation of the defective product. To determine who is liable, however, you’ll need to look at the chain of distribution.

Manufacturer

At the start of a product’s chain of distribution is the manufacturer. Manufacturing companies can range in size – whether it be a multi-million dollar corporation or a small family-owned company, manufacturing companies hold the same responsibility to deliver products that do not put its users at risk. If the defective product is a smaller component of a larger product, you should include the manufacturer of the defective part and the company that manufactured the larger product. For example, if you’re driving a car with defective airbags, you could name both the airbag manufacturer and the car manufacturer as defendants.

Retailer

Although the store in which you purchased the product had no direct participation in its defect, you can still hold the retailer responsible for selling you the product. Individuals who pursue a product liability claim often feel as though they must choose one defendant over the other. As a plaintiff, you can name multiple defendants in your case, especially if more than one party or entity is liable.

Wholesaler

After a product is designed and manufactured but before it reaches the retailer, there are wholesalers and distributors who act as liaisons. Because of their involvement of the product’s distribution, they should be named as defendants in your claim.

At Laurence A. Silverman, Esq., our Long Island product liability lawyers can serve as your personal allies. We offer aggressive advocacy when you need it most, because our firm understands that the road to recover is too difficult to face alone.

Let us pursue justice on your behalf. Call (631) 925-2117 today or contact us online to schedule your case evaluation.