Many people who have suffered injuries because of a defective product wonder if they need a receipt for that product to prove their case. You may no longer have the receipt, or the product may have been purchased for you as a gift by a family member or friend. While receipts can serve as critical evidence, they are not the only factor that influences the strength of your personal injury claim. A product liability lawyer can use other types of evidence to get you the financial compensation you may be entitled to.

If you’ve been injured by a dangerous or defective product, the legal team at Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp can evaluate your case to determine what legal recourse you may have. We can assess your claim and guide you through the legal process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 833-997-1774 for a free consultation.

What Is a Defective Product Claim?

Defective product claims arise when a consumer is injured by a product that is flawed or unsafe. These claims can be based on three primary types of defects:

  • Design
  • Manufacturing
  • Marketing (such as inadequate warnings or instructions)

Product liability laws allow injured consumers to seek compensation from manufacturers, retailers, or other parties involved in distributing the defective product. The injured party must demonstrate that the product was defective and that this defect caused their injury. Because these cases can be complex, it is recommended that injured parties consult with personal injury lawyers who specialize in defective product cases.

What Are the Types of Damages Victims Can Collect?

There are a number of losses an individual injured by a defective product can pursue in a defective product claim, including:

  • Current and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages if unable to work while they recover
  • Loss of future income if left with long-term or permanent disabilities
  • Pain and suffering
  • Scarring
  • Disfigurement
  • Emotional trauma

How Do I Prove My Case Without a Receipt?

The key aspect of a defective product claim is demonstrating that the product was inherently dangerous or flawed. Although a receipt serves as direct evidence that you purchased the defective product, your defective product injury lawyer can use alternative ways to establish your purchase, such as bank or credit card statements, warranty registration, or even witness testimony from the point of sale.

Some other ways your lawyer can prove your injury case include:

  • Photographs and documents – Take clear photographs of the defective product and your injuries. Documenting the condition of the product at the time of the injury can provide compelling evidence in your favor.
  • Witness statements – If there were witnesses to the incident or individuals familiar with the product, their statements can support your claim. Witnesses can provide additional context about the product’s use and known defects.
  • Medical records – It is important to keep thorough records of any medical treatment you received due to the injury. These documents will help establish the severity of your injuries and the associated costs, providing a clearer picture of your damages.
  • Expert witness testimony – In many cases, a personal injury lawyer will consult with expert witnesses who can evaluate the product and provide testimony regarding its defects. Their analysis can significantly bolster your claim by linking the product’s flaws to your injuries.

What Should I Do If I’ve Been Injured By a Defective Product?

While having a receipt can be beneficial for a defective product injury claim, it is not an absolute necessity. If you suffer an injury due to a defective product, it is essential to act quickly, gather as much evidence as possible, and consult with a qualified defective product injury attorney to navigate the complexities of your claim effectively. Remember, the goal is to prove the defectiveness of the product and its link to your injuries, which can often be accomplished even without a receipt.

At Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp, we have decades of experience handling personal injury claims involving dangerous and defective products. We understand how to navigate the legal process and work with you to maximize the value of your case. Call us at 833-997-1774 to schedule a free consultation, and let us help you get the compensation you deserve.