October 2009

$15.5 Million Jury Verdict

Craig Good recently testified in Mississippi at the trial of Willis v Kia. The case involved 16-year-old Jaleesa Willis who lost control of the 2001 Kia Sportage SUV she was driving, causing it to roll several times. Despite being properly belted, Jaleesa was ejected from the vehicle through the driver's door and was rendered a paraplegic. Dr. Good testified on seatbelt design. The Kia's seatbelt system included an energy absorption loop that deployed during the crash, introducing an additional 8 inches of slack into the system, allowing Jaleesa to slip out of the belt. The jury awarded the plaintiff $15.5 million U.S. See our upcoming On-Scene newsletter for details.