In a strict liability case for a defective product, the defendant must be what?

In a strict liability case for a defective product, the defendant must indeed be a commercial supplier or distributor of the product. This legal principle is grounded in the idea that those who are in the business of selling products are in the best position to ensure that their products are safe for consumers.

Strict liability is often imposed in product liability cases because it holds manufacturers and sellers responsible for defective products regardless of fault. This means that if a product is found to be defective and that defect causes injury, the commercial supplier can be held liable even if they were not negligent in their handling or production of the product.

In contrast, an individual seller of used goods, such as a private individual selling a personal item, typically does not fall under the same liability framework as commercial suppliers. Their lack of commercial interest or expertise diminishes the legal responsibility associated with providing goods to the public.

A customer who experienced the defect cannot be the defendant in this scenario, as they are the party claiming harm or injury from the defective product, not the source of liability. Lastly, while a manufacturer who no longer produces the product might have certain responsibilities, strict liability is aimed at those currently involved in the distribution chain who are in a position to address product safety concerns. Thus, the