When a defective or dangerous product causes injury, Washington provides a path to recovery through the Washington Product Liability Act (WPLA), codified at RCW 7.72. The Act consolidates most product claims into a single statutory framework.
Types of Product Defects
Product liability claims generally involve one of three defects: a manufacturing defect (the product left the factory flawed), a design defect (the product is inherently unsafe as designed), or a warning defect (the maker failed to warn of a known danger).
Under the WPLA, a manufacturer can be liable when a product is not reasonably safe as designed or because adequate warnings were not provided.
Who Can Be Held Liable
The WPLA primarily targets manufacturers, but sellers and distributors can also be liable in certain circumstances, such as when they are negligent or when the manufacturer is insolvent or beyond the court's reach.
These cases often require expert analysis to prove the defect and link it to the injury, which is why thorough investigation is essential.
Deadlines for Product Claims
Product liability claims under the WPLA generally must be brought within three years of when the claimant discovered or should have discovered the harm and its cause (RCW 7.72.060), subject to a useful-safe-life limitation.
If a defective product injured you in Washington, a free case review can help determine whether you have a claim under the WPLA.
Have questions about your own situation? Get a free, confidential case review. You pay no fee unless you win. Call 973-566-5599.
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a licensed Washington attorney.