Preparation Is Critical To Your Case

Preparation Is Critical To Your Case

Time frames for filing product liability lawsuits in Georgia

On Behalf of | May 17, 2022 | Defective Products |

Georgia law recognizes that some manufacturing or distributing companies sell products that are dangerous for users. Therefore, if a defective product injures you, you should file a lawsuit against the liable manufacturer, supplier, or retailer to get the compensation you deserve. But what is the right time to do this? Keep reading to learn more.

Georgia product liability statute of limitations

According to Georgia Code § 51.1.11, you have limited time to take legal action against a company or store responsible for your injury by selling you defective products. The specific time frame depends on the type of claim: If you received a bodily injury, you have two years for the date it occurred, and if your property was damaged, you have four years. If you do not file within this window, your case will likely be dismissed.

This may seem like a long time, but it is important to remember that building a strong case can take too long. Your attorney will need to investigate the incident, collect evidence, speak with witnesses, and convince them to agree to testify against the responsible party.

What if a recalled product injured you?

If a recalled product injured you, the court might extend the statute of limitations. This is because it can be difficult for you to know that the item was defective until the manufacturing company issued a recall. For example, if a defective airbag harmed you, the recall may not be issued until months or even years after the initial injury. In this case, you would have two years from the recall date to file a lawsuit.

Depending on your unique circumstance, you can file a lawsuit against the retailer, supplier, or manufacturer of the defective product. For example, if a product is defectively designed, the manufacturer would be at fault. If the product is not properly manufactured, the manufacturer and distributor may be held liable. And if the product is not labeled correctly or warnings are not provided, then the retailer may be held responsible for your injury or property damages.

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