Modern trends in products liability

Abstract

This dissertation examines the most important developments and modern trends in the products liability law of the United States, the European Union, Australia and New Zealand. The United States has influenced international products liability forever. The European Union followed the United States, but learned from their mistakes. The lessons are reflected in the European Directive. In turm, Australia followed the European Directive but its close neighbour, New Zealand, managed to address products liability in their own unique way. In contrast, South African products liability law has not seen much development recently. Good guidelines can however be found from comparative law for the future development of products liability law in South Africa. In the conclusion of this dissertation, consideration will be given to the necessity of South Africa following the modern international trends in products liability.