We all expect the things we buy to be safe to use. Occasionally injuries occur due to unsafe or defective products. Thousands are injured every year as a result of defective or faulty products. In these situations a claim for compensation may be possible. Specialist legal advice should be taken as soon as possible.

When can I claim?

To succeed with a claim it has to be proven that your injury was caused by the fault of another. This would usually be the manufacturer or in certain circumstances the retailer.

The Consumer Protection Act gives rights to injured individuals against manufacturers and retailers of products. Accidents can occur as a result of faulty or dangerous cosmetics, faulty electrical products or faulty or dangerous children’s toys. You should ensure that the fault is reported to the retailer or manufacturer as soon as possible. You should keep all relevant paperwork such as purchase receipts and where possible take and retain photographs of the faulty product itself.

Organisations such as your local Trading Standards and Consumer Direct are there to provide practical consumer advice in such situations. It is important to take expert legal advice as quickly as possible in order to take the necessary action against those involved.

How much compensation will I receive?

We aim to maximise the amount of compensation you will receive. A number of factors will be taken into account including the pain and suffering caused by the injury, financial losses (such as loss of earnings and expenses) and costs of care and assistance. The aim is to put you back in the position you would have been had you not suffered the injury in the first place. Nobody wants to suffer the pain caused by injury. The law seeks to remedy this with financial compensation.

When must I claim?

Personal injury claims are subject to strict time limits. By law, you must normally submit your claim to the Court within 3 years of your injury. Any delay may mean that you lose your right to make a claim. The best advice is to speak to a lawyer as soon as possible.