What does "unreasonably dangerous product" refer to in product liability?

In product liability law, the term "unreasonably dangerous product" specifically refers to a product that poses a risk beyond ordinary consumer expectations. This means that when a consumer uses the product in a manner that is reasonably foreseeable, the potential for harm or danger exceeds what an average consumer would anticipate under similar circumstances.

This concept is critical because it helps to establish whether a manufacturer or seller can be held liable for injuries caused by their product. To prove that a product is unreasonably dangerous, it is necessary to demonstrate that the risks associated with its use are greater than those that would typically be expected based on the product's purpose and the existing warnings or instructions provided to the consumer.

Options referencing mere defects, expensive production, or minor flaws do not encapsulate the broader implications of unreasonable danger. A product could be defective without being unreasonably dangerous, an expensive product does not automatically translate to safety or efficacy, and minor flaws may not elevate a product's danger level beyond what is acceptable to an average consumer. Thus, the precise definition of an unreasonably dangerous product is crucial for effectively addressing liability in legal contexts involving consumer safety.