What is the “consumer expectation test” in a defective products case?

The “consumer expectation test” is an important concept in defective product cases in California. This standard requires that a product meet the reasonable expectations of a typical consumer. The test is used to determine if a product was dangerously or negligently manufactured or designed, resulting in injury to a consumer. The test is based on a simple yet important idea. If a product fails to meet typical consumer expectations, then it can be considered a defective product. For example, if a tool is advertised as durable and long-lasting but fails after the first use, a court may consider that the product failed to meet the reasonable expectations of a consumer. When a defective product case is brought to court, it is the responsibility of the injured party to prove that the product failed to meet the expectations of a typical consumer. Factors that may go into determining a verdict include the product’s marketing materials (such as advertising, labels, and instructions), industry standards, and expert testimony. In other words, a court may rely on the opinion of experts to determine the level of safety and quality that a customer would reasonably expect of a product. By proving that a product failed to meet customer expectations, an injured party can demonstrate that they were harmed by a defective product and may be entitled to compensation under defective products law in California.

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What is the “consumer expectation test” in a defective products case?

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