For millions of people, Amazon is the go-to destination for shopping, offering a wide range of products from electronics to toys. But when a product bought on Amazon causes serious harm, the question becomes, who is responsible?
For years, Amazon has argued it is simply a platform connecting buyers and sellers, not a seller itself. That position has shielded it from liability in many product defect cases, leaving injured consumers with few practical options—especially when the manufacturer is an overseas company.
Recent legal developments in Washington are challenging this view, and we are at the forefront of cases that could hold Amazon accountable for defective products sold on its site.
Amazon’s Longstanding Defense
Amazon’s typical argument is straightforward:
- Third-party vendors list and sell the products.
- Amazon only facilitates the transaction, processes payment, and ships the item.
- Because Amazon does not purchase and resell products like traditional retailers, Amazon says it shouldn’t be liable for defects.
This has made it difficult for injured people to recover damages, particularly when manufacturers can’t be found or are outside the United States.
The Shift in the Legal Landscape
In recent years, courts around the country pushed back against Amazon’s “not a seller” defense. In Oberdorf v. Amazon, for example, a federal court held Amazon could face product liability claims for injuries caused by an item sold by a third-party vendor. Amazon later settled the case without admitting to any wrongdoing.
More recently, the Louisiana Supreme Court ruled that, under that state’s product liability laws, Amazon counts as a “seller” when it comes to defective third-party products sold on its website. The court also said Amazon can be held responsible if it acted negligently in handling those sales (Pickard v. Amazon.com, Inc., June 2024)
While every case is unique, judges are scrutinizing the role Amazon plays in the sale, shipment, and marketing of products. Because Amazon’s corporate ties are here in Washington, many of these cases can be filed in Seattle—even if the injured person lives in another state.
Types of Defective Product Claims Against Amazon
Product liability claims often fall into three main categories:
- Design defects – The product is inherently unsafe, even when used as intended.
- Manufacturing defects – An error occurred during production, rendering certain units unsafe.
- Failure to warn – Missing or inadequate instructions and safety warnings.
These issues can arise with almost any type of product sold through Amazon, including:
- Electronics that overheat or catch fire
- Toys with small parts that pose choking hazards
- Defective auto parts
- Hazardous dietary supplements
- Household products like fire pits and pressure cookers
- Recreational products
- Worksite equipment, like ladders
Injuries from these products can be severe, including burns, broken bones, permanent disabilities, and death.
Why File in Seattle?
Amazon’s headquarters and corporate structure create a legal basis for bringing claims in Seattle, King County, Washington. Washington law and Washington courts often provide substantial advantages over many other courts around the country. Washington law is generally very protective of consumers, and juries in King County are usually more favorable than those in many other jurisdictions.
Steps to Take After an Amazon-Related Injury
If you believe a defective product bought on Amazon caused your injury:
- Get medical care right away. Your health comes first, and medical records will be substantial evidence.
- Save everything. Keep the product, packaging, instructions, order confirmation, and any receipts.
- Document your injuries. Take photos and document your symptoms and the recovery process.
- Avoid direct contact with Amazon or the “partner seller.” This can sometimes make matters more complicated.
- Speak with an attorney familiar with Amazon cases in Washington. Acting quickly can make a difference in your ability to pursue a claim.
Our Firm Is Leading the Way in Amazon Product Liability Cases
The legal tide is turning. Courts are re-examining whether Amazon can continue to avoid responsibility for dangerous products sold in its store. As one of the firms at the forefront of this fight, we are committed to standing up to large corporations and protecting consumers’ rights.
Whether you live in Seattle or across the country, if your claim can be filed in Washington, we have the experience and resources to handle it. If you’ve been injured by a product purchased on Amazon, contact Stritmatter Law Firm today for a free case evaluation. We will review your situation, explain your options, and fight to hold the right parties accountable.
