Jeff Varcadipane
June 11, 2025

Understanding Product Liability Lawsuits in New Jersey
In New Jersey, product liability cases fall under the New Jersey Product Liability Act (NJPLA). This law protects consumers by holding manufacturers, distributors, and retailers liable for injuries caused by unsafe products. Whether a product is inherently dangerous, poorly manufactured, or improperly labeled, a victim can file a claim with the help of a defective products attorney.
Key legal highlights:
- A product is deemed defective if it isn’t reasonably safe for its intended or foreseeable use.
- Plaintiffs must prove the defect existed before it left the manufacturer’s control.
- The injury must be directly caused by the defect.
Partnering with an experienced defective product lawyer ensures your case aligns with NJPLA standards and increases your chances of winning.
Types of Product Liability Claims
There are three primary categories of product defects recognized in New Jersey:
1. Design Defects
These arise when a product’s original design is inherently unsafe. Even if manufactured correctly, the product remains dangerous due to its design.
Example: A car model with a high rollover risk due to its structural design.
2. Manufacturing Defects
These occur during the production process. Although the product’s design may be sound, mistakes in manufacturing can make it dangerous.
Example: A batch of medication contaminated during packaging.
3. Marketing or Warning Defects
Also called “failure to warn,” these claims involve missing or inadequate instructions and safety warnings.
Example: A cleaning chemical sold without skin-contact warnings.
A knowledgeable defective products lawyer will help you determine the type of defect and build a case accordingly.
Top 5 Most Famous Product Liability Lawsuits
These landmark cases demonstrate how legal action can spark corporate accountability and consumer protection:
- Philip Morris (2002) – A cancer patient won $28 billion (later reduced) for lack of smoking risk warnings.
- General Motors (2008) – $150 million awarded in a coolant-related class-action suit.
- McDonald’s Hot Coffee Case (1994) – $2.86 million (initial jury award) for a woman who suffered third-degree burns when she accidentally spilled McDonald’s coffee on her lap.
- General Motors (1999) – $4.9 billion verdict for faulty gas tanks in Chevrolet Malibus.
- Owens Corning (1998) – $1.2 billion resolved for asbestos-related health issues.
These victories were made possible by skilled defective product attorneys dedicated to justice.
Key Elements of a Product Liability Case
To win a claim in New Jersey, you and your product liability attorney must establish the following:
- The product was defective (design, manufacturing, or marketing).
- The defect existed when it left the manufacturer’s control.
- The defect caused your injury.
- The product was used as intended or in a foreseeable way.
Without solid proof of these factors, a claim can easily be dismissed. That’s why hiring an experienced defective product lawyer is crucial.
The Role of Negligence in Product Liability Cases
Unlike general personal injury cases, proving negligence is not always necessary in New Jersey. The NJPLA works on a strict liability basis. If a product is defective and causes harm, liability can be established without showing intent or negligence.
However, proving gross negligence can significantly strengthen your case and may allow for punitive damages, capped at $350,000 or five times compensatory damages whichever is greater.
Steps to Take After a Product-Related Injury
If you’ve suffered due to a defective product, here’s what you should do immediately:
- Seek Medical Help – Get treated and obtain medical records.
- Preserve the Product – Save the item, packaging, and receipt.
- Document Everything – Write down what happened and gather witness accounts.
- Track Your Expenses – Keep records of bills, lost wages, etc.
- Consult a Lawyer – Speak to a defective products attorney ASAP.
- Report the Defect – File a complaint with the Consumer Product Safety Commission, but do so after consulting your attorney.
Act fast—New Jersey has a two-year statute of limitations for filing product liability claims.
Why Choose Varcadipane & Pinnisi, PC for Your Case
When it comes to defending your rights, Varcadipane & Pinnisi, PC bring decades of combined experience in handling product liability cases. Their team of defective products attorneys is skilled in navigating the NJPLA and advocating aggressively for victims.
Why clients trust Varcadipane & Pinnisi:
- Proven success in winning settlements and jury trials.
- Access to industry experts and investigators.
- Personalized legal strategies tailored to your case.
Start your journey to justice today by visiting www.vplaw.com or learning more about their New Jersey personal injury services.
The Importance of Evidence in Product Liability Claims
Evidence is the core of any strong product liability case. Your product liability attorney will help gather and present:
- The product itself (in its current state).
- Photographs/videos showing the defect.
- Medical documents linking the injury to the product.
- Expert testimony from engineers or doctors.
- Witness accounts of the incident.
- Company records or recall notices.
Proper evidence can mean the difference between a dismissed claim and fair compensation.
Your Rights After Being Injured by a Defective Product
If you’re harmed by a defective item, you have the right to:
- Seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and suffering.
- Hold companies accountable for unsafe products.
- File for punitive damages in severe negligence cases.
- Submit a claim within two years of your injury.
Consulting a defective products lawyer ensures these rights are protected and exercised fully.
Seeking Justice in New Jersey
Filing a product liability lawsuit might feel overwhelming, but justice is within reach. With the right product liability attorney, you can hold negligent corporations accountable and receive the compensation you deserve.
For legal expertise you can trust, turn to the defective products attorneys at Varcadipane & Pinnisi. To understand more about New Jersey product liability laws, check out FindLaw’s state resource.
Don’t let a defective product define your future—fight back with the legal firepower you need.
Jeffrey W. Varcadipane
Jeffrey W. Varcadipane is a Certified Civil Trial Attorney by the Supreme Court of the State of New Jersey and a Founding Partner of the Firm. He handles a variety of matters including civil and commercial litigation, appellate practice, real estate, and business law.
University: J.D. Fordham Law School
Bar Number: 29472005
Locations: New Jersey, New York, and Florida.
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