However, most manufacturers buy pre-manufactured components from suppliers who are themselves manufacturers. Additionally, these manufacturers may have their own distributors as a wholly or partly owned subsidiary, who, while not subject to product liability as a manufacturer, will still be liable as part of the chain of distribution. It is not always clear who the manufacturer is. In many industries, components are manufacture by different manufacturers, then assembled by a final entity, who may put labels on the final product for other businesses. Certain components in a final assembly will be good, and their separate manufacturers should not bear the cost of a strict liability case against a single defective component.
Some companies simply combine parts from other manufacturers for sale.
Product Liability Discussion Product liability is the liability placed on all aspects of the distribution chain to compensate the final purchasers of products for damages or injuries caused by defective products to themselves, their property, and also to certain bystanders. First and foremost, product liability was aimed at the manufacturer. After all, it was the manufacturer that actually made the defective or dangerous product that caused the harm. Very simply put, a manufacturer can be held liable for manufacturing a product that is not reasonably fit, suitable, or safe for its intended purpose. A manufacturer is not liable for products altered or modified after they leave the manufacturer's control, or used unsafely or for a purpose for which the manufacturer could not reasonably foresee the product bring used.