Knitz v. Minster Machine Co.
Supreme Court of Ohio
432 N.E.2d 814 (1982)
Minster (defendant) manufactured a die press that could be activated by a two-hand button, keeping the operator's hands clear of the danger zone, or by an optional foot pedal that left the operator's hands free to reach into the press. Knitz (plaintiff) was using the press with the foot-pedal option when she accidentally depressed the pedal while her hand was inside the machine, and it amputated two of her fingers. Knitz brought a strict-liability design-defect claim, and the trial court granted Minster summary judgment. Knitz appealed.
Whether expert testimony proposing a feasible alternative to an allegedly defective product design creates a genuine issue of material fact sufficient to defeat summary judgment.