What are the differences between a manufacturer’s warranty and a product liability claim?

A manufacturer’s warranty and a product liability claim are both legal rights of a consumer that are used to seek compensation when a product causes injury, harm, or loss. In Virginia, both claims are regulated by the law of product liability, which holds manufacturers and sellers responsible for any damages caused by a product. A manufacturer’s warranty is a contractual agreement between a consumer and the seller of a product. The warranty is typically offered to cover repairs or replacements of the product for a certain period of time. The details of the warranty vary by product and manufacturer, and the coverage may be limited to specific types of damage. A product liability claim is a lawsuit against the manufacturer, seller, or distribution of a product that has caused injury, harm, or damage to a consumer. This type of claim holds the product’s parties liable for any damages that the consumer has suffered. The basis for the claim can be negligence, a breach of warranty, or a defect in the design, manufacture, or labeling. The key difference between a manufacturer’s warranty and a product liability claim is that a warranty is an agreement between a consumer and a seller, while a product liability claim is a legal action against a manufacturer, seller, or distributor. A warranty is offered voluntarily as a way for a manufacturer to add value to their product and provide support for the consumer. A product liability claim is a way for a consumer to seek compensation when a product has caused harm.

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