Class Action Lawsuit | Bert McDowell Injury Law

A class action lawsuit allows many individuals who have experienced similar injuries or damages to join together and sue the responsible party as a group. These lawsuits are commonly used when a company, government entity, or individual causes widespread harm, such as through defective products, dangerous medications, or negligent practices.

By uniting as a “class,” plaintiffs can share legal costs and improve their chances of receiving fair compensation through a settlement or verdict.

What Is a Class Action Lawsuit?

A class action lawsuit consolidates dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of individual claims into one legal case. Instead of multiple lawsuits, the plaintiffs act collectively as a class of people with similar injuries.

Examples of Common Class Action Lawsuits:

Defective Products: Dangerous items that harm multiple users, such as faulty appliances or hazardous toys.
Pharmaceuticals: Medications with undisclosed side effects or unsafe usage risks.
Environmental Damage: Harm caused by pollution or toxic chemicals affecting entire communities.
Data Breaches: Private information exposed due to negligent handling by a company.

Most class actions target businesses or corporations, but they can also involve government agencies or private individuals in certain cases.

How Does a Class Action Lawsuit Begin?

Class action lawsuits often start when it becomes clear that numerous people have suffered the same type of harm. This realization can stem from:

Investigative journalism uncovering widespread wrongdoing.
Government investigations or recalls, such as FDA product warnings.
Individuals independently seeking legal advice about their injuries or damages.

At first, there may not be concrete evidence of liability. Attorneys spend significant time researching and investigating to build a strong case. During this period, individuals may already file separate lawsuits against the liable party. However, if enough people come forward, these cases may be consolidated into a single class action.

The Class Action Process

Filing the Lawsuit
Attorneys for the plaintiffs file the necessary paperwork to represent the group. This often involves choosing one court jurisdiction for all claims, regardless of where individual plaintiffs reside. Large cases may be moved to federal court under the Class Action Fairness Act of 2005.
Opt-In Period
Additional individuals who qualify as part of the class are given the opportunity to “opt in” and join the case.
Trial or Settlement
The court hears the case and determines liability. If the plaintiffs win, damages are distributed among the class. These damages may be divided equally, given as fixed amounts, or calculated based on each person’s individual losses.

Why Join a Class Action Lawsuit?

Class actions simplify the legal process for individuals who may not otherwise afford to pursue their claims independently. They also ensure that large corporations or entities are held accountable for widespread harm.

What Should You Do If You Think You Have a Class Action Claim?

If you believe you’ve been injured or harmed by a defective product, dangerous medication, or another negligent action, contact an experienced class action attorney immediately. A skilled lawyer can evaluate your claim, determine whether you qualify as part of an existing class, or help build a new class action.

How Bert McDowell Injury Law Can Help

At Bert McDowell Injury Law, we have the experience and resources to handle complex class action lawsuits. For years, we’ve helped individuals seek justice against negligent parties and secure the compensation they deserve.

Why Choose Us?

Proven success in fighting large corporations.
Personalized attention to every client’s needs.
No upfront fees—you don’t pay unless we win.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you think you may have a claim for a class action lawsuit, don’t wait. Time limits may apply to your case. Contact Bert McDowell Injury Law for a FREE consultation today. Call us at (475) 231-3274 or fill out our online form to get started. Let us fight for you while you focus on your recovery.