JSA Secures Major Victory for Mercedes-Benz India in Landmark Product Liability Case
JSA successfully defends Mercedes-Benz India in a landmark product liability case. Scroll down to read more!
September 26, 2024 — JSA Advocates and Solicitors, one of India’s leading law firms, successfully defended Mercedes-Benz India Private Limited in a significant product liability case before the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission. The case, Mohd. Hyder Khan v. Mercedes-Benz India Private Limited & Anr., revolved around allegations of a manufacturing defect concerning airbag deployment in a Mercedes-Benz vehicle.
Key Legal Precedents Established
In its ruling, the National Commission clarified critical aspects of Indian product liability law, especially regarding vehicle safety mechanisms like airbags and seatbelts. The judgment emphasized the following key principles:
- Primary Role of Seatbelts: The seatbelt serves as the primary safety mechanism in vehicles. Airbags are designed to deploy only when the seatbelt is worn, as outlined in the Owner's Manual.
- Expert Testimony Requirement: Alleging a manufacturing defect necessitates strong evidence, including expert testimony.
- Mandatory Inspection: Section 13(1)(c) of the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, mandates an inspection of the allegedly defective goods before any judgment can be passed.
- Application of Res Ipsa Loquitor: The principle that “the facts speak for themselves” cannot be applied without clear facts on record.
- Airbag Deployment Criteria: Vehicle deformation alone is insufficient to infer a defect or trigger airbag deployment, given the role of crumple zones in absorbing impact.
JSA's Strategic Counsel
JSA’s disputes team, led by Partner Sidharth Sethi and supported by Senior Associate Avinash Das, provided expert legal counsel to Mercedes-Benz India, resulting in a favorable ruling. This decision reinforces important product liability standards within the automotive industry, ensuring a higher burden of proof for allegations of manufacturing defects.
About JSA
Founded in 1991, JSA Advocates and Solicitors is a leading full-service national law firm in India, with nearly 500 legal professionals across seven offices. Known for its client-centric approach, JSA is actively involved in shaping policy matters and complex transactions in various industries. The firm is consistently recognized for its legal expertise and innovative solutions by leading legal directories and industry journals.
This victory marks another milestone for JSA in defending high-profile clients and setting crucial legal precedents in the Indian legal landscape.
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