We have yet another entry into the lawsuit lottery. In this case, the target is the City of Durham, who has, quite literally, a completely endless supply of money from which victims can take.

Details on the case are a bit light on the internet. From what I can gather, a police car was traveling approximately 50mph on it's way to an emergency call when it hit a woman crossing the street. The woman wants a pile of cash because she's "permanently disabled." There is no notice as to what about her is disabled, although a picture of her shows a woman in good health.

The state supreme court ruled that the officer was not liable. The city claims it was an accident. Unfortunately, very few lawyers and judges have ever heard the word "accident," much less know what it means. So now, after at least 3 different groups have decided it wasn't the officer's fault, they are appealing again.

I understand the woman was hurt. But she says, "It's not fair." Well you know what? That's right. Life isn't fair. And it won't be made more fair if she wins this lawsuit. What would happen if she wins? The taxpayers will be out a pile of cash and the police in Durham will now only be able to drive 25mph while stopping at all crosswalks in the city before they can respond to an emergency call. Is that MORE fair?

I have one other question -- if the officer was going 50mph and headed to an emergency call, how did this person get in the middle of the road? Didn't the bright, flashing lights and loud siren register at all?

Posted by: Ogre at 10:04 AM | Comments (5) | Add Comment
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