Defective-product cases can become difficult when the item is discarded, repaired, altered, or returned before it can be examined.
Preserve the product
- Keep the product in substantially the same condition.
- Save packaging, instructions, receipts, and warnings.
- Take photos from multiple angles.
- Keep serial, model, lot, and purchase information.
Document the injury and use
Write down how the product was being used, when the problem appeared, and whether anyone else observed the failure.
Be careful with returns
Before surrendering important evidence to a manufacturer, insurer, or retailer, consider getting legal advice about preservation.
Legal-information notice: This article is general information, not legal advice. Laws and deadlines vary by jurisdiction and facts.