A faulty airbag, a mislabeled medication, or a children’s toy that breaks apart – these are a few examples of everyday items that can turn an ordinary day into a medical emergency. When a product hurts you, the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer should be held responsible, not you or your family.

At the Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec, we have championed injured Texans since 1996, combining practical advice with focused courtroom advocacy. If a defective product upended your life, read on to learn how we can help you reclaim both your health and your peace of mind.

Product Liability Claims We Handle

Product liability covers far more than obviously dangerous items. A common household appliance can become hazardous when a component is poorly made, and a vehicle part can fail because a mechanic was forced to work with substandard materials. Our team addresses the full spectrum of product-related injuries.

Below are some common sources of claims we investigate and litigate:

●  Auto parts such as brakes, tires, and airbags that fail during normal driving

●  Prescription or over-the-counter drugs that cause unexpected side effects

●  Implanted medical devices, including hip replacements and surgical mesh, that malfunction inside the body

●  Consumer goods like space heaters, baby walkers, or power tools that overheat, break, or lack proper warnings

●  Toxic exposure from weed killers, industrial solvents, or other chemicals released at work or at home

If your situation is not on this list, do not worry. A quick call can confirm whether your circumstances fit within Texas product liability law.

How the Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec Assists You

A successful claim demands time, resources, and a methodical approach. Our firm delivers each of these steps while keeping you informed.

Case Evaluation

Your first meeting with us is free. We review medical records, study the damaged item, and consult with engineers or medical specialists to map out what went wrong and how badly you were hurt.

Establishing Liability

Our investigation digs into design drawings, plant inspection reports, and marketing materials to pinpoint each party that played a role in releasing the defective product. Photograph logs, expert testing, and witness statements help link the defect to your injuries.

Pursuing Compensation

We prepare detailed demands that include every dollar spent or lost. When companies refuse a fair settlement, we file suit and present your case to a jury.

Guidance and Support

You will never have to wonder about the status of your claim. Phone calls are returned promptly, and we translate legal developments into plain language so you can make informed choices.

Elements of a Product Liability Claim in Texas

To recover damages, an injured consumer must show three essential points under state law. First, the product had a defect in design, manufacturing, or warnings.

Second, you used the item in a way that was intended or reasonably foreseeable.

Third, the defect directly caused your injuries and related losses. When these points align with credible evidence, Texas courts allow recovery without proving that the company was careless in a traditional negligence sense.

Types of Product Defects

Understanding the nature of the defect helps target the right defendants and evidence. The comparison below highlights important distinctions.

Defect TypeWhat It MeansTypical Proof Needed
DesignThe blueprint itself makes every unit unsafe, even if built perfectly.Industry standards, safer alternate designs, and accident history.
ManufacturingSomething went wrong during assembly, leading to a flawed batch.Quality-control records, plant maintenance logs, and damaged exemplars.
Failure to WarnLabels, instructions, or packaging did not explain foreseeable dangers.Warning language, user manuals, and expert testimony on readability.

Whether the defect stems from a bad blueprint or a skipped inspection, we match the evidence to the correct theory and pursue every responsible party.

Why You Need a Houston Product Liability Attorney

Manufacturers usually keep detailed incident databases and retain high-priced defense firms to protect their bottom line. Without legal counsel, vital evidence can disappear, and settlement offers may cover only a fraction of your losses.

Our experience balancing the playing field forces corporations to face their obligations and pay fair value.

Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec in Houston TX

Damages Recoverable in a Product Liability Claim

Texas law recognizes both financial and personal losses caused by defective products. We work with economists, doctors, and life-care planners to document each category.

●  Medical Expenses. Hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and future treatments.

●  Lost Wages. Income is missed during recovery, plus diminished earning ability if you cannot return to the same job.

●  Pain and Suffering. Physical discomfort, ongoing limitations, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of everyday activities.

●  Punitive Damages. Available when a company’s conduct shows a reckless disregard for consumer safety.

Accurate valuation of these losses is essential to a full recovery, especially when injuries lead to permanent health challenges.

Product Liability FAQs

Answer: In Texas, most product liability cases must be filed within two years of the injury. However, the timeline can vary depending on when the injury was discovered and other factors. Speaking with an attorney quickly helps ensure your rights are protected before important deadlines pass.

Answer: Yes, if possible. The defective product is often the most important piece of evidence in your case. Do not repair, return, or throw it away. Store it safely so your attorney and experts can examine it.

Answer: A recall does not prevent you from filing a claim. In fact, recalls can strengthen your case by showing the company already recognized the danger. Even if a recall hasn’t been issued, you may still have a valid claim if the product caused your injury.

Answer: Yes. Texas law allows injured users, family members, and even bystanders harmed by a defective product to pursue compensation, even if they didn’t purchase the item themselves.

Answer: Texas follows a rule called proportionate responsibility. If you were partly at fault, you can still recover damages as long as you were not more than 50% responsible. Your compensation would simply be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Answer: Not always. Many cases are resolved through settlement negotiations with the manufacturer or their insurance company. However, if a fair settlement isn’t offered, your attorney may recommend taking the case to trial to protect your interests.

Take Action Today: Contact the Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec

You do not have to keep footing the bill for a corporation’s mistake. Our firm offers no-cost consultations, and we only get paid if we obtain compensation for you.Phone us at 281-643-2000, or reach out through our contact page to start the conversation. We are ready to listen, answer your questions, and stand by your side until your claim is resolved.  Our Board-Certified Injury lawyers are ready to help you and your family, so contact us today.