What is the purpose of the risk-utility test in design defect cases?

The purpose of the risk-utility test in design defect cases is to assess the risk of harm that a product may pose against the utility or benefit that the product provides to users. This test is integral to determining whether a product design is considered defectively unsafe under tort law.

In applying the risk-utility test, a court essentially weighs the safety features and potential hazards of the product against its intended use and benefits. If the risk of harm significantly outweighs the utility of the product, it may be deemed defectively designed and thus liable for resulting injuries. This balance helps ensure that products are designed with a reasonable level of safety in mind, without placing an undue burden on manufacturers to eliminate all risks.

Understanding the correct application of this test is crucial in tort law as it provides a framework for analyzing product liability claims in a way that is both fair to consumers and manufacturers. While other options touch on aspects related to product performance and satisfaction, they do not directly address the core function of the risk-utility test in evaluating product safety and design.