Manufacturer Liability for Harms Caused by Consumers to Others

摘要

Should the manufacturer of a product be held legally responsible if a consumer, while using the product, harms someone else? This is a question that has long vexed courts. Manufacturers might be held liable for accidental harms caused by the consumer, such as when a lawn-mower flings a stone that hits a neighbor in the eye or when a driver of a car hits a pedestrian. Manufacturers might also be held liable if the consumer intentionally causes harm, for example, when a gun is used to commit murder. Indeed, recently many lawsuits have been brought against firearms manufacturers for the deaths and injuries caused by criminals who use guns. Although such lawsuits have generally been unsuccessful, these issues remain hotly discussed in the legal and political arenas.