stevenb, I know that product safety laws are state laws, i.e. each state has its own distinct laws rather than a Federal approach, and they are all written on the basis of Strict Liability.

Cases (if they get to Court) are heard by juries who will also decide and award punitive damages if guilty, on top of any pain & suffering elements. Very expensive to get it wrong.

Best advice: if you are thinking about sending products to US take advice form a products law attorney in the state where you are supplying.