What is the “risk-benefit” defense to a product liability claim?

The “risk-benefit” defense to a product liability claim is a concept used in the state of Maryland to protect a manufacturer from a lawsuit in the event that a product causes injury or harm. This defense suggests that the product in question was designed with safety features that substantially reduced the risk of harm, but that the benefits of the product outweighed the potential risks. In other words, the manufacturer had good reason to believe that the product would provide benefits to the consumer that outweigh the risk of harm. For example, a manufacturer could use this defense if a product such as a medical device or an automotive part was deemed to be dangerous, but still in use. The manufacturer could argue that the benefits of the product outweighed the potential risks, and thus the product should not be considered dangerous. This defense could also be used when a product is designed with certain safety features, but the features are not enough to eliminate the risk of harm posed by the product. The manufacturer could then argue that the benefits of the product outweigh the risk, and the manufacturer should not be held liable for any harm caused by the product. The “risk-benefit” defense is an important concept in product liability law in Maryland, as it gives manufacturers some protection from legal liability in cases where a product may be deemed dangerous or defective. This defense allows manufacturers to provide products to consumers that come with the assurance that the risks posed by the product have been weighed against the potential benefits of the product, allowing the consumer to make an informed decision about whether the product is right for them.

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What is the “risk-benefit” defense to a product liability claim?

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