Warning: These Warnings Warn About Worrying Warnings

In an earlier article, we discussed the reason for the lengthy warnings that always show up at the end of pharmaceutical commercials. That did not answer the question, however, about why some odd and seemingly-unnecessary warnings appear on everyday products. Is it really necessary for an automobile’s full-window sunshield to carry the caution, “Do not drive with sun visor in place”?

We could go into a long, complicated explanation about product liability law. It is much easier and entertaining, however, to list the following product warnings and remind you that every one of them was likely added after a dissatisfied customer called up to complain.

Or, as a more cynical person might say, “I’m not saying we should kill all the stupid people; I’m just suggesting we remove all the warning labels and let nature take care of things.”