What is “strict liability”?

"Strict liability" is a legal concept that exists in many states, including Oklahoma, concerning dangerous products laws. Strict liability holds a manufacturer or distributor of a defective product legally responsible for any damages that occur from that product regardless of fault. In other words, the seller or manufacturer of a dangerous product can be held responsible for any injuries that result from using the product, even if the seller or manufacturer was not negligent in any way. Under strict liability, a plaintiff does not have to prove that the seller or manufacturer was negligent in order to receive damages for the harm done. Rather, the only requirement is that the product was in some way defective and that the defect caused harm. For example, if someone was injured while using a car because a manufacturer defect caused it to malfunction, the injured party can sue the manufacturer and receive compensation for any medical bills and other damages without having to prove the manufacturer was negligent. Strict liability makes it easier for plaintiffs to receive compensation for the harm done from defective products, but can be difficult for manufacturers and retailers because they cannot escape liability even if they take necessary precautions to avoid harm. However, it can be beneficial to consumers in the long run as manufacturers and retailers have more incentive to produce and distribute products that are not dangerous or defective.

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What is “strict liability”?

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