How to Document Product Defects After a Serious Injury in Georgia
In Georgia, product liability cases depend heavily on the quality and availability of evidence. Whether the defect involves a vehicle part, appliance, or another type of product, taking immediate and informed action is essential to preserve your right to compensation.
At Butler Prather LLP, we have decades of experience holding manufacturers accountable for defective and dangerous products.
Why Documentation Matters in Georgia Product Liability Cases
Georgia law allows injured consumers to pursue claims against manufacturers, designers, and retailers when a product causes harm due to defects in design, manufacturing, or warnings. But to succeed, you must show:
- The product was defective
- The defect caused your injury
- The product was being used as intended
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your first priority should always be your health. Seek emergency care or visit your doctor as soon as possible after the injury. In addition to providing essential medical treatment, this will also creates a record linking the defective product to your injuries.
Be sure to:
- Follow all medical advice and treatment plans
- Keep records of all appointments, prescriptions, and expenses
- Request copies of all medical reports and diagnostic results
Step 2: Preserve the Defective Product
Do not throw away, repair, or tamper with the item that caused your injury. Preserving the defective item is one of the most important steps you can take. Your legal team and expert witnesses will need to examine it to determine the nature of the defect.
Store the product in a safe, secure place where it won’t be damaged further. If the product is large or complex (like a vehicle or machine), take steps to prevent further use until it can be properly inspected.
Document the product’s:
- Model and serial numbers
- Purchase date and place
- Condition at the time of injury
- Packaging and instruction manuals, if available
Step 3: Take Photos and Videos Immediately
Visual documentation provides undeniable proof of the product’s condition and the circumstances surrounding the injury. As soon as possible, take photos and videos of:
- The defective item from multiple angles
- The scene where the injury occurred
- Your injuries (both immediately and throughout recovery)
- Any property damage related to the incident
Use timestamps or label images with the date taken to help establish a timeline.
Step 4: Write Down Everything You Remember
Memory fades quickly, especially after a traumatic injury. That’s why you’ll want to create a written account of what happened while it’s still fresh in your mind. Important things to include:
- How the injury occurred
- What you were doing with the product at the time
- Any warnings or instructions you did or did not see
- Names of anyone who witnessed the incident
Step 5: Avoid Speaking With Manufacturers or Insurers Without Legal Representation
After an injury, the product manufacturer or their insurance company may reach out for a statement or to offer a quick settlement. Do not engage with them without consulting a product liability attorney.
You may be pressured to sign a waiver, give a recorded statement, or return the defective product – all of which can hurt your case. A personal injury attorney from Butler Prather LLP can protect your interests and manage all communications on your behalf.
Step 6: Contact a Georgia Product Liability Attorney
Defective product cases are legally complex and often involve large companies with aggressive legal teams. Working with an experienced product liability attorney ensures that your case is investigated thoroughly and that all avenues for compensation are explored.
At Butler Prather LLP, we’ve successfully handled high-stakes product liability cases across Georgia and throughout the United States. From automobile defects to unsafe consumer goods, our attorneys know how to build compelling cases with comprehensive evidence.
We focus on:
- Consulting product safety experts
- Reconstructing the incident
- Preserving the defective item
- Analyzing design and manufacturing processes
- Reviewing corporate communications about the product
Step 7: Understand the Statute of Limitations in Georgia
In Georgia, you generally have two years from the date of injury to file a product liability lawsuit. However, certain circumstances, like delayed discovery or injuries to minors, can affect this timeline.
An attorney can review your case and ensure that your claim is filed within the correct legal deadlines.
Step 8: Monitor Your Recovery and Ongoing Damages
Continue documenting your recovery over time. Keep a journal that notes:
- Pain levels
- Emotional distress
- Physical limitations
- Missed activities or events
- Interference with work or family life
This daily log can demonstrate how the injury has affected your life in meaningful, personal ways.
Common Examples of Product Defects
Product liability claims in Georgia often stem from one of the following types of defects:
- Design defects: The product was inherently unsafe, even when manufactured correctly.
- Manufacturing defects: An error during production rendered the product dangerous.
- Failure to warn: Inadequate instructions or lack of safety warnings.
Examples of cases we’ve handled include:
- Exploding fuel tanks
- Vehicle roof crush in rollover accidents
- Faulty airbag deployment
- Defective power tools or appliances
No matter the type of product, your right to safety as a consumer is protected by Georgia law.
Why Choose Butler Prather LLP
Since 1988, Butler Prather LLP has represented injured individuals and families in high-stakes personal injury and product liability cases. With multiple verdicts exceeding $100 million and a proven track record when going up against powerful corporations, we know how to pursue justice and achieve results.
Our approach is rooted in preparation, compassion, and relentless advocacy. We treat every case as if it’s going to trial, and we never back down when our clients’ futures are on the line.
We handle cases involving:
- Automotive product defects
- Consumer electronics and appliances
- Construction and industrial equipment
- Recreational and household products
If you’ve been seriously injured by a defective product in Georgia, we’re ready to fight for you.
Talk to an Experienced Georgia Product Liability Lawyer in Columbus
If you or someone you love has suffered a serious injury due to a dangerous or defective product, don’t wait. Contact Butler Prather LLP today at (706) 322-1990 for a free consultation.
Our Georgia product defect attorneys are prepared to guide you through the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve.