10 Ways a Non-Manufacturer Can Be Held Liable as the Manufacturer

And what you can do to change that When might the courts look on retailer, assembler or distributor as the manufacturer in product liability claims? Most retailers, assemblers and distributors of products aren’t aware of the actual degree of liability for which they…

Exposing Foreign Manufacturers of Defective Products

I previously posted information about the CPSC’s new searchable database (Section 212). Will it hold foreign manufacturers that ship defective products into the U.S. more accountable? The CPSC now requires source information be included on products and in package markings. That means manufactures selling…

Rule #1: Take Customer Product Complaints Seriously

Fending Off the Feds I recommend every manufacturer, importer and distributor create a system for collecting customer complaint data. Do so can help identify defects or safety issues and prevent a recall. And don’t think that such a system is…

What Many Importers Don’t Know About Liability Insurance

A common mistake among U.S. importers of foreign products Many importers assume that their foreign manufacturers share some liability in the event of a Product Liability claim in the U.S. This is particularly so if the foreign manufacturer says they…

“My Product Is Safe.”

That’s what they all say! Possibly the most over-used comment by Product Liability prospects is “My product is safe.” It’s usually followed by something about getting a low insurance premium because the product is so safe. Sadly, there is almost never…

The High Cost to Small Business for Product Safety Compliance

Rising administrative costs for  household, recreational and children’s products The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is under increased fire from Congress and the public because of the overwhelming number of product recalls over the past few years. This is especially true…

Can Foreign Liability Insurance Save You Money?

The surprising answer Are you aware there is often a big difference between rates of foreign and U.S. Product Liability Insurance? Many U.S. exporters don’t know this because local and general insurance agents are not aware of all the options….

U.S. Consumer Products Safety Improvement Act of 2008

CPSC mandates a searchable database for consumers One of the most significant changes resulting from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 is the creation of a searchable database (Section 212) for consumers.  This one change could significantly…

Minimum and Deposit Premium

Understanding the terminology A minimum and deposit premium is the amount due at the inception of the Product Liability Policy.  Even though the policy is “ratable” (subject to adjustment based on rate per sales), under no circumstances will the annual…

Understanding a Product Liability Audit

Why No Refund? One of the least understood aspects of a product liability audit is the perceived unfairness of why there is no refund of premium at the end of the policy period from the insurance carrier when actual sales…