What Makes a Product Defective Under Michigan Law

Consumers expect that the products they buy and use every day are safe. Whether it’s a car, a household appliance, or a medical device, people trust that these items have been properly designed, tested, and manufactured. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. When something goes wrong and a defective product causes injury, the consequences can be serious and sometimes life-altering. Under Michigan law, injured consumers may have the right to pursue compensation through a product liability claim—but understanding what legally qualifies as a “defective product” is key to building a strong case.

How Michigan Defines a Defective Product

Michigan law recognizes that not all injuries involving a product automatically mean it was defective. To hold a manufacturer, distributor, or retailer responsible, an injured person must prove that the product was unreasonably dangerous due to a defect and that the defect directly caused the injury. A product can be defective in its design, manufacture, or the way it was marketed to consumers. Each type of defect involves different legal considerations.

Design Defects

A design defect occurs when a product’s blueprint or intended design makes it inherently unsafe, even if it was manufactured exactly as planned. In other words, the danger is built into the product itself. For example, if a power tool lacks adequate guards to prevent accidental contact with a moving blade, or a car model is prone to tipping over during normal use, those issues may indicate a design defect.

In Michigan, courts often evaluate whether a safer, feasible alternative design could have been used without significantly affecting the product’s purpose or cost. If a safer option was available and the manufacturer chose not to use it, the product may be deemed defective. This type of claim often requires expert testimony from engineers or product safety specialists who can analyze the design and explain what went wrong.

Manufacturing Defects

Manufacturing defects are the most straightforward type of product defect. These occur when an error happens during the production process, making one or more items unsafe even though the design itself was sound. The defect might result from poor quality control, substandard materials, or assembly errors.

For instance, if a batch of tires leaves the factory with weak sidewalls due to improper curing, or a medical implant is contaminated during production, those individual products may fail and cause injury. In these cases, plaintiffs typically only need to show that the specific product they used deviated from its intended design and that this defect directly led to the harm.

Marketing Defects and Failure to Warn

Sometimes, a product is dangerous not because of how it was made, but because the consumer wasn’t properly warned about its risks. These are known as marketing defects or “failure to warn” claims. Manufacturers and sellers are required to provide clear, visible, and adequate warnings or instructions that inform users of potential hazards.

For example, a chemical cleaner should include clear warnings about the need for ventilation or protective gloves. A medication must list possible side effects and dosage instructions. If these warnings are missing, misleading, or hidden in fine print, and someone is injured as a result, the manufacturer may be held liable.

It’s also important that warnings are designed for the average consumer. Technical or overly complex instructions that ordinary people cannot reasonably understand may not meet legal standards under Michigan law.

Proving a Product Liability Claim in Michigan

To succeed in a defective product claim, the injured party must demonstrate several key elements:

1. The product was defective – You must prove that the defect existed when the product left the manufacturer’s control.
    
2. The product was used as intended – The product must have been used in a way that the manufacturer could reasonably foresee.
    
3. The defect caused the injury – There must be a direct link between the defect and the harm suffered.
    
4. You suffered measurable damages – This includes medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other related losses.

Evidence is critical in these cases. Victims are often encouraged to keep the defective product, packaging, purchase receipts, and any related documentation. Photos of injuries and expert evaluations can also strengthen the claim.

The Role of Strict Liability and Negligence in Michigan

Michigan’s product liability laws are based on both strict liability and negligence principles. Under strict liability, a manufacturer or seller can be held responsible for injuries caused by a defective product even if they did not act negligently. The focus is on the product itself, not the intent or actions of the company.

However, negligence-based claims are also common. In those cases, the injured person must prove that the manufacturer failed to exercise reasonable care during the design, manufacturing, or marketing process. For example, if a company ignored known safety test results or rushed a product to market despite warnings about potential risks, those actions may support a negligence claim.

Common Examples of Defective Products

Defective products come in many forms, and no industry is immune. Some common examples seen in Michigan personal injury cases include:

• Automotive parts – faulty airbags, brakes, or ignition systems
   
• Medical devices and drugs – defective implants, contaminated equipment, or undisclosed side effects
   
• Household products – malfunctioning appliances, space heaters, or power tools
   
• Children’s products – unsafe toys, car seats, or furniture that fails safety standards
   
• Industrial equipment – defective machinery used in factories or construction sites

Each type of product requires different types of expert evaluation and evidence, which is why legal representation is so important in these cases.

Possible Defenses Manufacturers May Use

Manufacturers and their insurers often push back against product liability claims. They may argue that the product was altered after it left their control, that it was misused by the consumer, or that the plaintiff assumed the risk of injury. Some may also claim that the danger was obvious and that the user failed to take reasonable precautions.

In Michigan, a concept known as comparative fault may also come into play. If the injured person is found to have contributed to their own injury—such as by ignoring safety instructions—the amount of compensation they can receive may be reduced proportionally.

How an Experienced Attorney Can Help

Product liability cases can be complex and highly technical. Proving that a defect existed and that it caused harm often requires expert witnesses, product testing, and detailed investigations. A skilled attorney can help gather the necessary evidence, consult with industry experts, and handle negotiations with large manufacturers and their insurers.

At Smith & Johnson, the legal team understands how devastating a defective product injury can be. They have the experience to analyze the cause of the defect, identify all responsible parties, and fight for fair compensation on behalf of injured consumers.

Protecting Consumers Across Michigan

When a product fails to meet safety standards, the impact can extend beyond a single consumer. Defective products can put entire communities at risk. Holding manufacturers accountable not only helps victims recover financially but also encourages safer design and production practices across industries.

If you or someone you love has been injured by a defective product in Michigan, you don’t have to face the legal process alone. The attorneys at Smith & Johnson are committed to helping victims understand their rights and pursue justice. Reaching out for legal guidance early can make a significant difference in protecting your future and ensuring that negligent manufacturers are held responsible for the harm they cause.