How to File a Claim Under the Alabama Extended Manufacturer's Liability Doctrine (AEMLD)

If you have been injured by a defective consumer product, piece of machinery, or household item in Alabama, you might assume that the manufacturer is automatically at fault. However, Alabama does not recognize 'pure strict liability' like many other states do. Instead, the state relies on a unique legal framework established in the 1970s known as the Alabama Extended Manufacturer's Liability Doctrine (AEMLD). Navigating this complex doctrine requires highly specialized legal knowledge. If you are preparing to file a claim, finding an experienced attorney through our directory of US Lawyers is an essential first step to protect your rights.

The Foundation of Alabama Product Liability Law

The AEMLD was officially established by the landmark cases Casrell v. Altec Industries, Inc., 335 So. 2d 128 (AL Supreme Court 1976) and Atkins v. American Motors Corp., 335 So. 2d 134 (AL Supreme Court 1976). These rulings determined that while manufacturers must be held accountable for putting dangerous products into the marketplace, plaintiffs still carry a significant burden of proof. You cannot simply show that you were injured; you must prove fault in the design, manufacturing, or marketing of the product.

Elements of an AEMLD Claim

To successfully win a lawsuit under the AEMLD in courts like the Jefferson County Circuit Court, Birmingham or the Montgomery County Circuit Court, Montgomery, your attorney must prove several specific elements. First, you must show that you suffered actual damages or injuries. Second, you must prove that the defendant is in the business of selling the product. Third, and most importantly, you must demonstrate that the product was 'defective' and 'unreasonably dangerous' when it was sold.

Proving a Product is 'Unreasonably Dangerous'

The core of an AEMLD claim is the concept of a product being unreasonably dangerous. This means the product is dangerous to an extent beyond what would be expected by the ordinary consumer who purchases it. If you buy a kitchen knife and cut yourself, the knife is dangerous, but not 'unreasonably' so, because knives are expected to be sharp. However, if the handle of the knife shatters under normal use and drives a shard of plastic into your hand, that is an unreasonable defect.

The 'No Causal Relation' Defense

Manufacturers and retailers have specific defenses available to them under the AEMLD. One of the most common is the 'No Causal Relation' defense. If you sue a local hardware store for selling you a defective chainsaw, the store can argue that they simply sold the product in its original packaging and had no part in designing, manufacturing, or altering the chainsaw. If they successfully prove this, they can often be dismissed from the lawsuit, leaving you to pursue only the out-of-state manufacturer.

How AEMLD Differs from Traditional Negligence

While the AEMLD is similar to a negligence claim, it shifts the focus slightly. In a standard negligence case, you must prove that the manufacturer failed to exercise 'reasonable care.' Under the AEMLD, the focus is on the product itself. If the product is defective and unreasonably dangerous, it does not matter how carefully the manufacturer tried to make it-they are still held liable for the defect. However, defenses like 'contributory negligence' (where the defense argues you used the product incorrectly) can still completely bar you from recovering compensation in Alabama.

Timelines and the Statute of Limitations

In Alabama, time is not on your side. Under Ala. Code § 6-2-38, you have exactly two years from the date of your injury to file a product liability lawsuit. If you fail to file your complaint, typically starting with a Form ARCiv-93, Alabama, Unified Judicial System, Cover Sheet Circuit Court - Civil Case, before this two-year window closes, the court will permanently dismiss your case.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)