In brief, the person or organization that introduced the defect is legally liable for the defect. In practice, that's usually the manufacturer -- but not always. Anyone in the "chain of commerce" between the original manufacturer and the store where you buy a product may be liable for the product's defects. This can include:
- Manufacturers and farmers.
- Wholesalers.
- Distributors.
- Processors.
- Retailers.
- Subcontractors.
- Resellers (in some states).
- Rental companies (if they fail to maintain rental equipment properly).
- Individuals, in some cases.
- Companies that acquired or merged with a liable company.
If you bought a defective product used, the reseller may or may not be liable. This depends on your state, whether there was a written or implicit warranty, and whether the reseller is normally engaged in retail business.
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