Steps If a Product Harmed You
If you think a medication, medical device, or product caused you harm, a few simple steps can protect your health and any future claim. There is no rush to decide anything legal — start here.
Take care of your health first
Follow your doctor's advice and keep up with your treatment. Your health matters most, and your medical records will also become important to any claim.
Keep the product and its packaging
If it is safe to do so, keep the product, its packaging, labels, lot numbers, and receipts. For a medical device, note what it was and when it was implanted or used.
Save your medical records and bills
Hold on to records that connect your injury to the product — diagnoses, treatment, prescriptions, and bills. You do not have to organize them; just keep them.
Write down the timeline
Note when you used the product, when symptoms started, and what you were told. Memories fade, and a simple timeline helps establish the connection.
Be cautious with company contact and ads
Avoid giving statements to a manufacturer's representative, and be wary of ads promising you qualify. Get an honest evaluation before responding.
Ask about the deadlines early
Because deadlines are matter-specific and can relate to when you discovered the harm, a free, confidential review can confirm them and protect your options.
The deadlines and rules depend on your state
The steps above apply wherever you were hurt. Filing deadlines, fault rules, and limits on damages differ by state — pick yours for what applies to mass torts.
Not sure where you stand?
A quick, confidential review can tell you — about two minutes, no cost, no obligation.
This is general information, not legal advice. Every situation is different, and the law differs by state.