FOR PUBLICATION
ATTORNEYS FOR APPELLANTS: ATTORNEYS FOR APPELLEES:
STANLEY C. FICKLE KARL L. MULVANEY
Barnes & Thornburg NANA QUAY-SMITH
Indianapolis, Indiana ANDREA M. ROBERTS
CANDACE L. SAGE
PAUL F. HULTIN Bingham, Summers, Welsh & Spilman
Parcel, Mauro, Hultin & Spaanstra, P.C. Indianapolis, Indiana
Denver, Colorado
W. RANDOLPH BARNHART
JOHN H. BEISNER Branney, Hillyard & Barnhart
BRIAN D. BOYLE Englewood, Colorado
O'Melveny & Myers, LLP
Washington, D.C. W. SCOTT MONTROSS
Townsend & Montross
Indianapolis, Indiana
C. JACK CLARKSON
Clarkson Law Office
Rushville, Indiana
FORD MOTOR COMPANY, )
)
Appellant-Defendant, )
)
vs. ) No. 49A05-9608-CV-322
)
VICKI AMMERMAN, Guardian of PAMELA )
AMMERMAN and LANA AMMERMAN, )
)
Appellees-Plaintiffs. )
RUCKER, Judge
Ford elected to make the Bronco II a derivative vehicle of the Ranger because only a
moderate investment would be required, making the Bronco II more profitable than other
alternatives presented.See footnote
1
R. at 7194-95. As a derivative vehicle the Bronco II shared the same
assembly line with the Ranger and was practically identical from the B pillar forward. R.
at 7193.
Using an entirely new platform, as opposed to modifying that used for the Ranger,
would have delayed production one to two years, placing Ford at least a year-and-a-half
behind the release of General Motors' ("GM") competitive SUV, the Chevrolet S-10 Blazer.
R. at 8880.
The first Bronco II, known as Job 1," was to be manufactured in mid-January
1983 and to be released in mid-March 1983. R. at 6041. GM was scheduled to release the
Blazer in the early fall of 1982. Id. Ford projected sales of the Bronco II to reach 468,000
with a net profit realized on each vehicle of $3,570 and total net profits of $1.6 billion
dollars. R. at 7194-95.
Ford selected the Jeep CJ-7 as its image vehicle which meant that the CJ-7 was Ford's
developmental point of reference. R. at 7696, 8711. The goals for the Bronco IIs came from
the CJ-7's performance, package dimensions, and characteristics. R. at 8711-12. At the time
Ford selected the CJ-7 as its image vehicle, Ford knew that studies showed that the Jeep CJ-5
and CJ-7 had rollover propensities significantly higher than other vehicles in their class. R.
at 7698.See footnote
2
The popular television program 60 Minutes aired a segment which described the
danger of Jeep rollovers in late 1980 of which Ford was aware, yet it continued to use the CJ-
7 as its developmental model.See footnote
3
R. at 5995, 7188. According to some experts in the field, the
tendency to roll over is caused by a low static stability index ("SI"). The SI describes the
relationship between a vehicle's track width and the height of the vehicle's center of gravity.
The lower the SI, the higher the risk of rolling over. A vehicle with a narrow track and a
high center of gravity is more likely to roll.
In February 1981, Ford engineers offered management five proposals to make the
Bronco II more stable. Proposals One and Two involved slight increases in the Bronco II's
stability index to 2.02 and 2.03, respectively. R. at 6001-02. Proposals Three, Four and Five
involved additional widening of the track and lowering of the center of gravity. These
changes would result in SIs of 2.09, 2.19, and 2.25, respectively.See footnote
4
R. at 6001-04. Proposals
One and Two could be completed by the production deadline date for the Bronco II; but
Proposals Three, Four, and Five "[could] not be contained within Job #1, 1983 P/U 4x4
timing because they involved increasing ride height, widening the track, and/or making
body revisions. R. at 6001. As a result Ford chose to proceed with Proposal Two knowing
that the Bronco II would have a stability index of 2.03, worse than that of the CJ-7 at 2.04.
R. at 6003.
In addition to an automobile's stability index, its tendency to roll over is governed by
the amount of understeer or oversteerSee footnote
5
and its sensitivity to steering inputs. R. at 5990. Ford
added a front stabilizer bar to the Bronco in order to increase the Bronco II's roll stiffness,
hoping to increase the amount of its understeer. R. at 7467. When equipped with a front
stabilizer bar the Bronco II was an understeer vehicle, but when it approached its cornering
limit, the Bronco II became an oversteer vehicle. R. at 6658-61. After adding a front
stabilizer bar, Ford performed only subjective tests to evaluate the bar, without performing
objective tests such as limit maneuvers or lane change testing. R. at 6676-81.
Another factor affecting the Bronco II's stability was Ford's use of the twin I-beam
(swing-axle) suspension. Swing axles have a tendency to jack because lateral forces on
the tire tend to push the axle up. Jacking has two effects: (1) the tires will move inward
under the vehicle, causing the vehicle to become narrower, and (2) the front of the vehicle
moves up, making the vehicle taller. R. at 6231-34. As a result, stability decreases
instantaneously. Jacking causes the Bronco II to jump up or spike, when the vehicle
experiences lateral forces of about .65 Gs. R. at 6267. Ford knew about the jacking problem
associated with the twin I-beam suspension. The engineering department published a paper
as early as 1965 warning that in smaller vehicles twin I-beams created jacking during
cornering. R. at 6251. Ford did have safer choices, and its own engineers recommended the
use of a MacPherson strut which lowers the center of gravity. However, the executive in
charge of making the suspension decision elected to go with the twin I-beam as a result of
pressures from his superiors. R. at 7970-72. Ford also sought additional marketing
advantages available with the twin I-beam.See footnote
6
After the decision to go with Proposal Two had been made, Ford built a mechanical
prototype of the Bronco II using the Jeep CJ-7 as its image vehicle and making the Proposal
Two modifications. Ford then scheduled extensive testing of the mechanical prototype. R.
at 7209. As a result of the testing, Ford engineers reported that the Bronco II's track needed
to be widened or its ride height lowered. R. at 7212.
After the mechanical prototype testing, Ford built engineering prototypes. Initially,
the prototypes were tested with the vehicle performing J-turnsSee footnote
7
of up to 55 m.p.h. and 360
degrees of steer. R. at 7215. The vehicle would tip over at speeds as low as 30 m.p.h. Id.
Ford's engineers tried a combination of different suspensions, tires, and steering designs in
an attempt to stabilize the Bronco II. Id. By mid-March 1982, development engineers again
reported that to improve the problem of rollovers, the track width had to be increased by
three to four inches. R. at 7222.
not make any major changes because they required widening the track or removing the twin
I-beam. R. at 6074-77. Both of which were costly and would have delayed production.
On May 28, 1982, at or around the time of the Arizona Proving Grounds testing, Ford
collected all documents relating to Bronco II's handling characteristics. This was the first
time in Ford history that it had gathered engineering documents relating to any particular
vehicle prior to production. All documents were maintained in a single location - Ford's
Office of General Counsel. These documents were reviewed by Ford employees with the
intent to "clos[e] the loop of vehicle documentation in this case." R. at 6964. One hundred
thirteen documents were specifically related to the Bronco II program reports, test requests,
test plans, and simulation analysis. Fifty-three of the documents disappeared. One of those
documents, an "assessment update" issued two months before the production deadline,
contained a separate document identified as "attachment two." The attachment listed seven
major risks due to incomplete testing of the Bronco II. R. at 7337. The attachment was
never found nor made available to the Ammermans. On November 24, 1982, Ford approved
the Bronco II, certifying it was ready for production. The Bronco IIs placed on the market
did not have the recommended increased track-width of at least 2 inches or a lower center
of gravity. R. at 8879-80.
After the advent of production Ford engineers continued to raise questions concerning
Bronco II's stability. In September 1986 Ford considered but disregarded larger tires because
they would decrease the SI and "raise questions with . . . OGC [Office of General Counsel]."
R. at 6136. Another Ford engineer recommended consideration of more permanent methods
of improving the Bronco's stability, including lowering the vehicle's center of gravity, adding
more weight, and widening the track width. The engineers were essentially ignored. By
placing the Bronco II on the market, Ford failed to meet its own design criteria. Ford's
design goals for the Bronco II were the following:
1. Extremely safe;
2. Reduce rollover propensity to minimum including panic situations;
3. Avoid (virtually preclude) over correction in accident avoidance maneuvers;
4. Remain stable at all speeds under maximum steering inputs per human factors
analysis;
5. Respond safely to large steering inputs which are typical of accident avoidance or
emergency maneuvers; and
6. Handling and stability equal or better than any vehicle in class.
R. at 5960. The vast majority of vehicles will not roll over or tip-up during J-turns and
emergency avoidance maneuvers. R. at 7069-70.
Although the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA)See footnote
9
has never promulgated rollover resistance standards, it has investigated defects which
contribute to a propensity for rollover. The NHTSA conducted a defect investigation of the
Bronco II from late 1988 until October 1990. At trial, the parties stipulated that Ford did
not provide any information to the NHTSA concerning the January to May 1982 APG
[Arizona Proving Grounds] testing of Bronco II prototypes. The issues of whether the
NHTSA asked for such information and whether Ford should have provided it to them [were]
for . . . the jury to settle. R. at 8486.
existence of a safety-related defect with respect to any of the allegations regarding the
propensity of the Bronco II to rollover. R. at 10197-98.
After the Bronco II was put on the market, Ernest Grush, Ford's automotive safety
office statistician, acknowledged that he met with representatives of Consumer UnionSee footnote
10
(CU) in April 1989 to discuss Bronco II accident data. CU was contemplating publishing
a report about the Bronco II's instability. A day after this meeting, Jerry Sloan, another Ford
representative, authored a memorandum reporting on the meeting, stating that Ford visited
with CU to moderat[e] what might otherwise be a totally disastrous story. R. at 9264.
Sloan's memorandum reported that Ford had clouded their [Consumer Union's] minds,
loosened some conclusions, . . . and sent them off to search for additional information which
may work to our advantage. R. at 9264.
this maneuver, the Bronco slid sideways and rolled over. Both Pamela and Lana were
ejected from the vehicle, and both sustained serious and permanent injuries. Pamela
underwent exploratory surgery for a blood clot on the back of her abdominal wall. She was
diagnosed with a crushed pelvis and closed head injuries, including a skull fracture,
contusions, and swelling of her brain. As a result of her closed head injuries, Pamela
suffered cognitive deficits, speech problems, weakness on the left side of her body, and
swallowing problems requiring a feeding tube. Pamela was not discharged from the hospital
until twelve weeks after the accident and underwent physical therapy for eighteen months.
Pamela's brain damage is permanent, and she currently has the mental capacity of a twelve-
or thirteen-year-old girl. Another side effect of the brain injuries has been the onset of a
bipolar disorder (manic depression), and she has attempted suicide as a result of her
condition. Pamela needs both medical and psychiatric care in order to stabilize her mood.
Her medical expenses exceeded $200,000.00 and she lost an estimated $723,717.00 to
$971,757.00 in earning capacity. Lana suffered a femoral fracture of the left thigh bone,
right clavicle fracture of the collar bone, and a collapsed lung. Because she lost a large part
of her temporal muscle leaving a "caved in" appearance, Lana was forced to undergo
multiple reconstructive surgeries which have not completely cured her facial injuries. She
continues to walk with an unsteady gait although a rod was inserted to stabilize her femur.
Lana's medical expenses totaled over $80,000.00.
The Ammermans filed a six-count complaint against Ford asserting various theories
of liability including products liability, negligence, breach of warranty, and strict liability in
tort. The case ultimately was presented to the jury upon the theory of strict liability in tort
pursuant to Indiana's Product Liability Act. After a twelve-day trial resulting in a record
exceeding 10,000 pages, the jury returned a verdict in the Ammermans' favor. Lana was
awarded compensatory damages in the amount of $400,000.00, and Pamela was awarded
compensatory damages in the amount of $4 million. The jury also awarded each of the
Ammermans $29 million in punitive damages for a total punitive damages award of $58
million.
Thereafter Ford filed a timely motion for relief from judgment pursuant to Ind. Trial
Rule 60(B)(8) contending that certain tests performed by the Ammermans' experts shortly
after the trial contradicted their trial testimony. The trial court denied the motion. Also Ford
filed a motion to correct errors seeking various alternative forms of relief. One of which was
the entry of judgment on the evidence for a substantially reduced punitive damages award
pursuant to T.R. 59(J)(5). The trial court granted the motion and remitted the punitive
damages award to slightly more than $13.8 million. This appeal followed.
a vehicle's SI determines whether it is stable and whether it would tend to roll over.
According to Dr. Kaplan, the Bronco's SI made it unstable. Dr. Kaplan also asserted that
vehicles with higher stability indices would not roll over, and automobile manufacturers
could make vehicles immune to rollover by increasing the indices. In support of his theory,
Dr. Kaplan and his partner, Robert Hooker, presented their own emergency avoidance
maneuver ("EAM") test. This test involved Hooker driving utility vehicles around pylons
using simulated emergency maneuvers. Dr. Kaplan testified that the protocol for the test was
the following:
a) to drive a vehicle (with outriggers) in a 12-foot
lane at a pre-determined speed (usually 35-50
MPH in 5 mile increments) as close to an obstacle
(traffic pylons) which block a lane of traffic
before imputing steer to the left (in a left
avoidance maneuver) to avoid the pylons; and
b) as the vehicle clears the barrier (pylons), input
steering back to the right to correct the first steer;
and
c) then input a third steer to straighten the vehicle
back into the original lane of travel; and
d) make all inputs as quickly as possible; but
e) picking off cones with outriggers is not a negation
of a test, nor does picking off the cone with the
vehicle itself necessarily negate the test. The
protocol is to 'avoid and correct.'
logic and effect of the facts and circumstances before the court, or the reasonable, probable
and actual deductions to be drawn therefrom. Burkett v. State, 691 N.E.2d 1241, 1245 (Ind.
Ct. App. 1998). Of course, whenever expert testimony is admitted its opponent is free to
challenge both the credibility of the expert and the weight to be given his testimony by the
jury.
Ford relies heavily on criteria established in Daubert in arguing that the Ammermans
failed to meet their burden regarding liability. Although Daubert is not binding upon the
determination of state evidentiary law issues, it is helpful to us as [t]he concerns driving
Daubert coincide with the express requirement of Indiana Rule of Evidence 702(b) that the
trial court be satisfied of the reliability of the scientific principles involved. Steward v.
State, 652 N.E.2d 490, 498 (Ind. 1995).
In determining whether scientific evidence is reliable, the trial court must determine
whether it appears sufficiently valid or, in other words, trustworthy to assist the jury.
Daubert, 113 S. Ct. at 2795 n.9. In so doing, the trial court must make a preliminary
assessment of whether the reasoning or methodology underlying the testimony is
scientifically valid and whether that reasoning or methodology properly can be applied to the
facts in issue. Hottinger, 665 N.E.2d at 596. While not presuming to set out a definitive
checklist or test regarding factors which bear on the reliability inquiry, the Daubert court
outlined key considerations: (1) whether the theory or technique at issue can be and has been
tested; (2) whether the theory or technique has been subjected to peer review and publication;
(3) the known or potential rate of error; (4) the existence and maintenance of standards
controlling the technique's operation; (5) and whether the technique is generally accepted
within the relevant scientific community. Id. at 2796-97. Although these considerations are
useful, there is no specific 'test' or set of 'prongs' which must be considered in order to
satisfy Indiana Evidence Rule 702(b). McGrew, 682 N.E.2d at 1292. Rather, reliability
may be established by judicial notice or by sufficient foundation to convince the trial court
that the relevant scientific principles are reliable. Id. at 1290; Steward, 652 N.E.2d at 499.
When laying a sufficient foundation, the focus must be on the principles and methodology
behind the science rather than the conclusions generated. Daubert, 113 S. Ct. at 2797;
Hottinger, 665 N.E.2d at 596-97.
We have reviewed the evidence and arguments, and we find no abuse of discretion
in the court's decision to admit the testimony of Dr. Kaplan. We proceed by addressing the
various points raised by Ford.
Ford challenges the admissibility of Dr. Kaplan's test results contending: (1) it lacked
established protocols including instrumentation; (2) it was neither generally accepted nor
reviewed by the relevant scientific community; and (3) Dr. Kaplan and Hooker designed and
conducted the test exclusively for litigation purposes. According to Ford, Dr. Kaplan's test
was unreliable because it was performed without preset protocolsSee footnote
11
or instrumentation.See footnote
12
Specifically, Ford argues the lack of requirements renders the test unreliable because the test
can neither be duplicated nor verified. Ford further argues one cannot determine the test's
error rate due to a lack of standards controlling the test's operation. The Ammermans counter
that preset protocols and instrumentations are unnecessary. They argue that failure to
establish protocols or instrumentations does not render EAM tests unreliable, and that it is
not uncommon to conduct EAM tests without instrumentation or specific protocols. The
Ammermans further contend that the objective of Dr. Kaplan's test was to push each vehicle
to its own particular limits in order to verify whether it would roll. Given the variations in
each vehicle, defined protocols would not necessarily push a vehicle to its limits.
Because "[s]cientific methodology today is based on generating hypotheses and
testing them to see if they can be falsified," a key consideration is whether a technique can
be and has been tested. Daubert, 113 S. Ct. at 2796. Another consideration is the technique's
known or potential rate of error. Id. at 2797. Thus, the existence and maintenance of
standards controlling the test's operation is relevant to the trial court's inquiry. Id. at 2797.
This is in keeping with the focus on principles and methodology. See Hottinger, 665 N.E.2d
at 596-97. Accordingly, a sufficient foundation may be laid when the expert testimony
provides reasonably specific details regarding the testing process utilized and the basis for
the resulting opinion. Davis v. State, 598 N.E.2d 1041, 1049 (Ind. 1992), reh'g denied.
However, the more technical the technique or test involved, the less particularized are the
foundational requirements. Hopkins v. State, 579 N.E.2d 1297, 1303 (Ind. 1991). "It thus
would appear that the greater the level of expertise involved, the more that procedural
particulars are left to the expert's discretion." Id.
[p]eople faced with a situation in the real world where they're
driving down the road and there's an obstacle in front of them
don't have any protocol for how much turn they need to put in
the steering wheel. What they're concerned with is avoiding the
obstacle . . . and so our test protocol doesn't involve putting in
a specific amount of steer. What the protocol involves is
making a sharp turn to avoid the obstacle.
R. at 7074. Contrary to Ford's assertion, Dr. Kaplan testified that there does exist a protocol
regarding the particular path traveled during the test. Dr. Kaplan further testified that he and
Hooker performed the tests at the same speeds. Dr. Kaplan affirmed that the only
instrumentation utilized is an internal camera which records the amount the steering wheel
is turned. According to Dr. Kaplan, instrumentation is irrelevant when determining a
vehicle's tendency to roll over; it is more appropriate when determining a vehicle's handling
properties. Dr. Kaplan testified that "you don't need instruments to tell you [whether a
vehicle will tip up or not]. What you have to do is just look at the test results and see
whether or not the vehicle tips up in these turns." R. at 7081-82. Both sides questioned Dr.
Kaplan extensively on the matters of protocol and instrumentation. In response, Dr. Kaplan
provided details regarding the testing process utilized and the basis for his opinion.
Ford presented testimony critical of Dr. Kaplan's test. Ford's expert, Lee Carr,
rendered his opinion of Dr. Kaplan's test:
ruling evidence admissible. McGrew, 682 N.E.2d at 1291 n.4. In addition, whether a known
technique attracts only minimal support is also relevant to the admissibility inquiry. Id. It
is important to note that this approach is more liberal than the traditional "general
acceptance" standard established by Frye v. United States, 54 App. D.C. 46, 293 F. 1013
(1923). Instead of wholesale exclusion under an uncompromising "general acceptance" test,
appropriate means of attacking shaky evidence include vigorous cross-examination,
presentation of contrary evidence, and careful instruction on the burden of proof. Daubert,
113 S. Ct. at 2798.
Both sides subjected Dr. Kaplan to vigorous examination. Dr. Kaplan testified that
the EAM, alternatively known as obstacle avoidance maneuver, consists of a "rapid turn into
the adjoining lane and a continuous rapid turn back into the original lane." R. at 7014-15.
The purpose behind such a maneuver is to test a vehicle's performance when a driver
attempts to avoid an obstacle in his or her path by making rapid, consecutive turns. On
direct examination, the Ammermans introduced a list compiled by Dr. Kaplan which
identified a number of entities that use emergency avoidance maneuvers to evaluate vehicles
for rollover. The entities listed included automobile manufacturers such as Ford, American
Motors, and Toyota. It also included private consultation companies as well as Consumer
Union. During voir dire examination, Dr. Kaplan testified that although all EAM tests are
performed for the same purpose, their protocols may differ with respect to speeds, distances,
and whether pylons are used. In fact, Dr. Kaplan stated that no other entity follows the exact
protocol as that used by his company.
theories may not be published while some propositions are too particular, too new, or of too
limited interest to be published).
The Ammermans do not refute Ford's claim that Dr. Kaplan's test has not been
published in a peer-reviewed journal. However, this fact alone should not render his expert
testimony inadmissible. Rather, the reliability of a test should be brought into question
through vigorous cross-examination and the presentation of contrary evidence. See Daubert,
113 S. Ct. at 2798. In this case, Ford had ample opportunity to attack Dr. Kaplan's test with
considerable preliminary questions. Following Ford's preliminary examination, the trial
court stated in pertinent part:
The Daubert test also says that your theories must be subject to
peer review, and I think that also goes to the repeatability aspect
of the arguments that have been made here. I don't think that
peer review is required; but, obviously, these tests are
documented well enough that they are subject to review of
peers.
R. at 7153-54. We agree with the trial court. Although not subjected to peer review in the
formal sense, the adversary nature of the trial subjected Dr. Kaplan's test to thorough scrutiny
and increased the likelihood of detecting substantive flaws in his methodology. Ford had
ample opportunity to contradict and disprove Dr. Kaplan's testimony through cross-
examination and presentation of its own evidence.
Ford further contends the admission of Dr. Kaplan's expert testimony was in error
given the fact that Dr. Kaplan and Hooker developed their test exclusively for litigation
purposes. "'[W]hether the experts are proposing to testify about matters growing naturally
and directly out of research they have conducted independent of the litigation, or whether
they have developed their opinions expressly for purposes of testifying'" is a factor
considered relevant by some courts. See Smelser v. Norfolk S. Ry. Co., 105 F.3d 299, 303
(6th Cir. 1997), cert. denied, ___ U.S. ___, 118 S. Ct. 67, 139 L. Ed.2d 29 (1997) (quoting
Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharm., Inc., 43 F.3d 1311, 1317 (9th Cir. 1995), cert. denied, ___
U.S. ___, 116 S. Ct. 189, 133 L. Ed.2d 126 (1995)). These courts believe the fact that an
opinion arises from tests developed independent of litigation "'important, objective proof that
the research comports with the dictates of good science.'" Smelser, 105 F.3d at 303.
Although the authority of other jurisdictions is worthy of consideration, we find no Indiana
case which requires or even suggests that a test's origins has a bearing on whether it is
admissible. Not even Daubert itself advocates such a rule. Again, any questions regarding
whether research comports with the dictates of good science should be addressed through
cross-examination and presentation of evidence.
Exclusion of Ford's Evidence
Ford contends the Ammermans' case was premised on the twin assertions that
passenger cars are immune from rollovers and that Ford violated its own design goals by
failing to give the Bronco II the same rollover stability as it set out in a 1973 letter to the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In an effort to explain or contradict these
contentions, Ford sought to introduce "hard evidence" in the form of studies of passenger car
rollovers, federal statistics, and foundational research. The trial court excluded the evidence,
however, based upon a determination that it was irrelevant. In response, Ford made an offer
of proof. Ford now complains that the exclusion of evidence left the jury with a misleading
impression with respect to whether it is feasible to design a passenger car which is immune
to on-road, tire-induced rollovers and whether enforcement of passenger car design standards
against the Bronco II would result in a rollover proof vehicle. Thus, Ford concludes that the
exclusion of this evidence prejudiced its defense.
Evidence is relevant if it has a tendency to prove a material fact. Booker, Inc. v.
Morrill, 639 N.E.2d 358, 363 (Ind. Ct. App. 1994). The question of relevance is for the
discretion of the trial judge and will be reversed only where a clear abuse of discretion is
shown. Id. Moreover, a trial court is afforded considerable latitude in the admission or
exclusion of evidence. Indiana Ins. v. Plummer Power Mower, 590 N.E.2d 1085, 1088 (Ind.
Ct. App. 1992). Reversal based upon the erroneous exclusion of evidence is justified only
where the evidence relates to a material matter or substantially affects the rights of the
parties. Faulkner v. Markkay of Indiana, Inc., 663 N.E.2d 798, 800 (Ind. Ct. App. 1996).
Even assuming the evidence Ford sought to introduce was relevant, the record reveals
that Ford was permitted to introduce evidence contradicting and explaining the Ammermans'
assertions. We find support for this conclusion in the testimony of two of Ford's expert
witnesses, Carr and Donelson. At trial Carr explained how engineers set and test
performance goals in the design of different types of vehicles and the factors impacting a
vehicle's rollover stability. R. at 11067-69. He then went on to explicitly state that all
vehicle makes and models have been involved in rollovers, R. at 10954, and that it is not
possible to design a vehicle that is immune to rollovers. R. at 11112. Donelson testified
concerning the statistical relationship between T/2HSee footnote
14
as a single characteristic and the
rollover rates of numerous vehicles as an outcome of accidents. During his testimony,
Donelson presented charts indicating that passenger cars and utility vehicles alike are subject
to rollovers. R. at 10707, 10725-27. He also testified that it is misleading to look at rollover
rates for a single class of vehicles without comparison to rollover rates of other classes of
vehicles. According to Donelson, numerous factors contribute to vehicle rollovers, some of
which are not related to the vehicle design. R. at 10765. In light of the testimony offered by
Carr and Donelson, we conclude that Ford was afforded an opportunity to contradict and
explain the Ammermans' assertions and, therefore, the exclusion of additional evidence did
not leave the jury with a false or misleading impression. Also, having examined Ford's offer
of proof, we conclude the excluded evidence was merely cumulative of the testimony already
provided.
Sufficiency of Evidence Supporting Punitive Damages
Ford contends the evidence at trial was not sufficient to support any award of punitive
damages. Ford's argument is based on three grounds: (1) for the automobile industry as a
whole the NHTSA rejected stability index as a predictor of rollover propensity, (2) NHTSA
specifically investigated allegations that the Bronco II had an inordinate propensity to roll
over and concluded that further investigation was not likely to yield any evidence that the
Bronco II was defective from a rollover safety standpoint, and (3) there was no clear and
convincing evidence that Ford possessed an "evil state of mind" in the production of the
Bronco II or that there was a "high degree of danger" that the Bronco II would roll over.
Brief of Appellant at 50.
When reviewing a challenge to the sufficiency of the evidence, we will affirm a
judgment of punitive damages if, considering only the probative evidence and the reasonable
inferences supporting it, without weighing evidence or assessing witness credibility, a
reasonable trier of fact could find such damages proven by clear and convincing evidence.
Bud Wolf Chevrolet, Inc. v. Robertson, 519 N.E.2d 135, 137 (Ind. 1988).
Contending that the NHTSA rejected stability index as a predictor of rollover
propensity, Ford asserts "NHTSA's determination conclusively negates the culpable mental
state required to sustain a punitive sanction under Indiana law." Brief of Appellant at 46.
First, we disagree with Ford's assertion. Although the NHTSA is not currently attempting
to develop stability regulations, NHTSA has made clear in its statements to the public that
stability issues are not to be discounted when investigating rollover propensity. In re Ford
Motor Co. Bronco II Products Liability Litigation, 909 F. Supp. 400, 408 (E.D. La. 1995).
The agency has stated that cost-benefit considerations have been the primary consideration
in opting not to promulgate such a standard. Id. In a 1987 report the NHTSA declared that
it believes it may be appropriate to consider rulemaking on vehicle rollover characteristics
when its ongoing and planned research relating to stability and other aspects of the problem
is completed. R. at 7611. Hence, the NHTSA's decision not to adopt a stability index
standard has been the result of inconclusive and incomplete research, and not an outright
rejection of a stability factor as an indicator of rollover propensity. Second, Ford's argument
on this point presupposes that the Ammermans' punitive damages claim rested solely on
stability index. That is not the case. As is evident from the trial court's jury instructions, the
Ammermans' claim was based upon the premise that "Ford Motor Company acted willfully
or wantonly with conscious disregard for probable injury, or with gross negligence regarding
the manufacture of the 1986 Bronco II 4x4." R. at 11610-11. Stated differently this case
proceeded to the jury on the theory that Ford manufactured a dangerous and defective
product and in so doing Ford showed "utter indifference or conscious disregard of the rights
of others," namely that its defective product would cause injury. Id. The stability index issue
was but a single component, albeit an important one, in the Ammermans' overall claim.
We also disagree with Ford's second assertion that NHTSA's report issued after an
investigation of the Bronco II precludes a finding that Ford acted with the requisite
culpability on which a finding of punitive damages may rest. In support Ford cites cases
from other jurisdictions which Ford contends stand for the proposition that compliance with
federal regulations precludes a finding of punitive damages.
We first observe the cases on
which Ford relies do not support its position.See footnote
15
In any event, at present there are no federal
regulations concerning rollover characteristics. Thus there were no federal regulations with
which Ford was bound to comply. Further, the record is clear that the NHTSA investigation
was essentially limited to examining documents Ford provided the agency. The record is
clear also that Ford did not provide the agency with the results of its prototype testing,
including the live testing conducted at the Arizona Proving Grounds in May 1982. During
one such test Bronco II engineering prototypes tipped-up when exposed to sufficient side
force, and the testing was suspended because of the danger it posed to the drivers. R. at
8809-11. Consequently, we cannot say NHTSA's conclusion would have been the same had
Ford provided the agency with documentation concerning the prototype testing.
Finally Ford contends there was no clear and convincing evidence that it possessed
an "evil state of mind" in the production of the Bronco II or that there was a "high degree of
danger" that the Bronco II would roll over. Pointing to relevant case authority Ford argues
a plaintiff must establish at least two critical facts in order to warrant punitive damages. First
she must prove that the defendant acted "consciously, and with a highly reprehensible state
of mind comparable to malice or wantonness, in producing injury." Brief of Appellant at 44
(citing Orkin Exterminating Co. v. Traina, 486 N.E.2d 1019, 1023 (Ind. 1986)). Second, the
plaintiff must establish that the defendants conduct involved "probable injury and a high
degree of danger to the plaintiff, of which the defendant was fully aware." Brief of Appellant
at 44 (citing Picadilly, Inc. v. Colvin, 519 N.E.2d 1217, 1221 (Ind. 1988)). Ford then argues
and attempts to demonstrate that neither element was satisfied in this case.
R. at 11610-11. Ford did not object to the instruction at trial, nor does it challenge the instruction on appeal. Therefore the jury was bound to apply the facts of this case to the law as given to it by the trial court. Pursuant to the trial court's jury instructions, the Ammermans first had to show Ford was strictly liable in tort. Apparently they have carried that burden in that Ford does not challenge this point on appeal; nor does Ford challenge the award of compensatory damages. Second, pursuant to the trial court's instructions, the Ammermans could prove entitlement to punitive damages on alternative grounds. More specifically they
were required to prove by clear and convincing evidence that in the manufacture of the 1986
Bronco II 4x4, Ford engaged either in "a course of action which shows an actual or deliberate
intention to cause injury, or [engaged in a course of action] which, under existing conditions,
shows either an utter indifference or conscious disregard for the rights of others." R. at
11610-11 (emphasis added).
The trial court observed and we agree that the record shows:
[t]he Bronco II's which rolled off the assembly line are
dangerous and defective. Ford's knowledge of the defect cannot
be reasonably questioned. The continued push to production of
this product after all of the internal protestation to the contrary,
is the crassest form of corporate indifference to the safety of the
ultimate user or consumer and constitutes gross negligence.
Id. We believe the jury could have reached a similar conclusion. At the very least the
evidence shows that in the manufacture of the 1986 Bronco II 4x4, Ford engaged in a course
of action which, under existing conditions, showed an utter indifference for the rights of
consumers.
Motion For Relief From Judgment
Following trial, Ford moved for relief from judgment pursuant to T.R. 60(B)(8). The
trial court denied the motion. Ford claims it erred in so doing because certain tests
performed by Hooker and Dr. Kaplan immediately after the trial contradicted Dr. Kaplan's
trial testimony. More specifically a test performed in 1995 showed Hooker tipping a 1993
Jeep Cherokee. Ford maintained the test undermined Dr. Kaplan's testimony that a mid
1980s Jeep Cherokee with an SI of approximately 2.24 could not be made to tip. The 1993
Cherokee, however, neither was the same Cherokee nor equipped the same as the one used
for the Ammerman trial. Ford then filed a supplement to its T.R. 60(B) motion following a
test conducted in 1996 during which Hooker tipped a Bronco 4x2 modified to meet Dr.
Kaplan's stability-index standard. Ford asserted that this test contradicted testimony that the
Bronco 4x4 could be modified to produce a safe vehicle. Ford argued that if the results of
the 1995 and 1996 tests had been available at trial, the outcome would have been different
because (1) the tests would have undermined Dr. Kaplan's testimony, and (2) the tests would
have proven the test unreliable, and therefore, inadmissible.
Indiana Trial Rule 60(B)(8) provides for relief for reasons other than mistake,
surprise, neglect, fraud, default without notice or grounds that could be rectified with a
motion to correct error. T.R. 60(B)(8).See footnote
16
Relief is therefore justified only in exceptional
circumstances. Showalter v. Brubaker, 650 N.E.2d 693, 699 (Ind. Ct. App. 1995). When a
motion for relief from judgment is filed, the burden is on the movant to demonstrate that
relief is both necessary and just. Levin v. Levin, 645 N.E.2d 601, 604 (Ind. 1994). The
movant must show it has a good and meritorious defense to the cause of action. Butler v.
Shipshewana Auction, Inc., 697 N.E.2d 1285, 1289 (Ind. 1998). A meritorious defense is
one which shows a different result would be reached if the case were retried on the merits.
Id. "The catalyst needed to obtain the proper relief is some admissible evidence which may
be in the form of an affidavit, testimony of witnesses, or other evidence obtained through
discovery." Chelovich v. Ruff & Silvian Agency, 551 N.E.2d 890, 892 (Ind. Ct. App. 1990).
The evidence must, as presented to the trial court, indicate the judgment would not remain
unchanged, and an injustice would be foisted upon the defaulted party if the judgment is
allowed to stand. Id. The decision of whether to deny a T.R. 60(B) motion is left to the
equitable discretion of the trial court. Levin, 645 N.E.2d at 604. "In exercising its discretion,
the trial court must balance the alleged injustice suffered by the party moving for relief
against the interests of both the prevailing party and society generally in the finality of
litigation." Greengard v. Ind. Lawrence Bank, 556 N.E.2d 1373, 1375 (Ind. Ct. App. 1990).
We will reverse the trial court's grant or denial of the motion only upon a clear showing of
an abuse of discretion. Lake County Trust v. Highland Plan Comm'n, 674 N.E.2d 626, 628
(Ind. Ct. App. 1996), trans. denied. An abuse of discretion occurs when the trial court's
judgment is clearly against the logic and effect of the facts and inferences supporting the
judgment for relief. Id. We will not reweigh the evidence in conducting this review. Levin,
645 N.E.2d at 604.
Ford contends the two subsequent tests justify setting aside the judgment. Ford argues
the new information would result in a different judgment by undermining Dr. Kaplan's
testimony in the eyes of the jury and by rendering Dr. Kaplan's testimony inadmissible. The
tests at issue utilized different vehicles than those used in the tests conducted on behalf of the
Ammermans.See footnote
17
The later tests, therefore, are not comparable to the original tests.
Furthermore, the trial court and jury considered extensive testimony and evidence critical of
Dr. Kaplan's test and stability index theory. The 1995 and 1996 tests thus would amount to
nothing more than cumulative evidence. Consequently, the results are not so exceptional as
to justify extraordinary relief pursuant to T.R. 60(B)(8).
Ford must also demonstrate that there is admissible evidence of a meritorious defense
against the Ammermans. See Butler v. Shipshewana Auction Inc., 697 N.E.2d at 1289.
Hence, Ford must present evidence demonstrating a different result would be reached if the
case were retried on the merits. See id. The only evidence available to Ford is the 1995 and
1996 test results. We agree with the trial court that these results are not outcome
determinative. Ford had numerous occasions to challenge Dr. Kaplan's testimony and did
so. As the trial court pointed out, Ford "had ample opportunity to impeach the results of the
Kaplan/Hooker tests through their own experts, testing and facilities." R. at 5124. The jury
was free to weigh the evidence presented by both Ford and the Ammermans. The evidence
considered included that regarding Dr. Kaplan's stability index theory as well as the test
itself. Clearly, the jury gave more weight to the Ammermans' evidence. In addition, the trial
court considered and weighed the evidence presented in determining the Ammermans laid
a sufficient foundation for the admissibility of Dr. Kaplan's test. The tests at issue here
would simply go to the weight and credibility of the evidence, not to its admissibility. Given
the vast amounts of evidence and testimony presented at trial, we cannot say that the 1995
and 1996 tests would result in a judgment different from the one here.
In sum, Ford has failed to show that relief is necessary and just. Based upon the facts
before us, we cannot say an abuse of discretion has occurred. The trial court found and we
agree that the test results would not have altered the trial's outcome. The trial court's
judgment is supported by the evidence, and we decline to disturb its decision.
Reduction of the Jury's Award and the Ammermans' Cross-Appeal
During closing argument counsel for the Ammermans offered the jury three
alternative methods for computing punitive damages: (1) triple the amount of the
compensatory damages, (2) multiply the sum of $83.00 [the money Ford saved on each
Bronco II by failing to make it safe] by 468,000 [the number of Bronco IIs Ford anticipated
selling], or (3) multiply the sum of $83.00 by 700,000 [the number of Bronco IIs Ford
actually sold].See footnote
18
R. at 11455-56. The jury eventually awarded Lana and Pamela equal shares
of $58 million. Noting the third alternative would render an award of $58.1 million, the trial
court concluded the jury must have adopted the third alternative in awarding punitive
damages. Relying on BMW of North America, Inc. v. Gore, 517 U.S. 559, 116 S. Ct. 1589,
134 L. Ed.2d 809 (1996), the trial court also concluded that the jury's award unwittingly
offended the U.S. Constitution because it was based on the number of Bronco IIs Ford sold
worldwide. Accordingly, the trial court reduced the $58 million award to $13.8 million,
which represented Ford's retooling costs, along with an additional $54.00 representing the
cost for additional hardware installed on each vehicle.
Without conceding that any award of punitive damages is warranted in this case, Ford
contends that even as remitted the award is still excessive. According to Ford, the award
violates the due process clause of the United States Constitution as well as Indiana common
law and the proportional penalties clause of the Indiana Constitution.See footnote
19
On cross-appeal the
Ammermans complain the trial court erred in remitting the collective $58 million punitive
damages award to $13.8054 million.
The trial court reduced the award pursuant to Indiana Trial Rule 59(J)(5) which
provides in relevant part that a trial court may "[i]n the case of excessive or inadequate
damages, enter final judgment on the evidence for the amount of the proper damages. . . ."
T.R. 59(J)(5). This remedy is available only where as a matter of law the evidence is not
sufficient to support the verdict. Carbone v. Schwarte, 629 N.E.2d 1259, 1261 (Ind. Ct. App.
1994). In determining whether the trial court properly entered final judgment on the
evidence, this court employs the same standard as the trial court. Id. That is, we must
determine whether the evidence is insufficient to support the verdict as a matter of law. In
so doing, we must consider only the evidence and reasonable inferences favorable to the non-
moving party; we may not weigh conflicting evidence or judge witness credibility. Id.
In Gore the U.S. Supreme Court examined the question of whether a $2 million
punitive damages award was grossly excessive and thus violative of the Due Process Clause
of the Fourteenth Amendment. The underlying facts of that case are these. Dr. Ira Gore
purchased a new BMW automobile and discovered the car had been repainted. He sued the
American distributor of BMW alleging, among other things, that the failure to disclose the
repainting constituted fraud under Alabama law. At trial BMW acknowledged that it
followed a nationwide policy of not advising its dealers, and hence their customers, of pre-
delivery damage to new cars when the cost of repair did not exceed three percent of the car's
suggested retail price. Gore's vehicle fell into that category. The jury returned a verdict
finding BMW liable for compensatory damages of $4,000.00 and assessed $4 million in
punitive damages. On appeal the Alabama Supreme Court reduced the punitive damages
award to $2 million, finding the jury "improperly computed the amount of punitive damages
by multiplying Dr. Gore's compensatory damages by the number of similar sales in other
jurisdictions."See footnote
20
Id. 116 S. Ct. at 1595.
Ammermans point out there was evidence before the jury concerning Ford's profits and net
worth. Specifically, the jury's award represented slightly more than 1% of Ford's $5.3 billion
in net profit for 1984. As for the latter, the Ammermans argue that manufacturing a defective
product does not represent lawful conduct in any jurisdiction.
We agree with the Ammermans there was evidence before the jury concerning Ford's
net profits. The law is settled that a fact-finder may consider a tortfeasor's financial condition
when determining punitive damages. Ramada Hotel Operating Co. v. Shaffer, 576 N.E.2d
1264, 1268 (Ind. Ct. App. 1991) (
"Based upon the theory that it will take a greater penalty
to dissuade the rich than the poor from oppressive conduct, the wealth of the defendant may
be shown so that the jury will assess damages which will punish it."). However, the record
is clear that in closing arguments before the jury counsel for the Ammermans did not focus
on Ford's net profits as a basis for punitive damages. Rather, counsel invited the jury to
return an award of punitive damages based on alternatives that would punish Ford for
conduct occurring beyond the borders of this State.
See footnote
22
The jury complied. Gore prohibits
extra-territorial sanctions and as such the trial court properly determined that the jury's
punitive damages award unwittingly offended the U.S. Constitution.
The Ammermans insist that Gore prohibits a State from imposing sanctions for a
tortfeasor's conduct that is lawful in another State. According to the Ammermans, placing
a dangerous and defective product into the stream of commerce is unlawful in every state of
the union. Pointing to favorable jury verdicts in other jurisdictions Ford counters there is
"not a shred of evidence suggesting that the distribution of Bronco IIs was unlawful in any
other state." Brief of Appellant at 66
. We assume that no jurisdiction condones the sale of
defective products. Nonetheless it is up to each jurisdiction to make that determination for
itself.
Thus we need not explore whether the sale of Ford's Bronco IIs are unlawful in other
states. An Indiana jury has determined that Ford has transgressed the laws of this State.
Thus any punitive damages award should be limited to protecting this State's consumers. We
conclude therefore that as a matter of law the evidence in this case was not sufficient to
support an award of punitive damages in the amount of $58 million. The trial court properly
reduced the award under the provisions of T.R. 59(J)(5).
Concerning Ford's argument that even as remitted the award is still unconstitutionally
excessive, we disagree. In addition to criticizing the extra-territorial nature of a punitive
damages award that is inconsistent with the principles of state sovereignty and comity, the
Gore Court also specifically set forth three "guideposts" to determine whether an award is
grossly excessive: (1) the degree of reprehensibility of the conduct at issue, (2) the disparity
between the harm or potential harm suffered by the complaining party and the punitive
damages the complaining party received, and (3) the difference between the punitive
damages remedy and the civil penalties authorized or imposed in comparable cases. Id. at
1598-99. We employ the same test here. Only if the guideposts demonstrate that Ford did
not receive adequate notice of the magnitude of the sanction that this state might impose for
the willful manufacture and distribution of a defective product, can we then say that the
$13.8 million punitive damages award is grossly excessive.
Reprehensibility
As Gore makes clear "Perhaps the most important indicium of the reasonableness of
a punitive damages award is the degree of reprehensibility of the defendant's conduct." 517
U.S. at 575, 116 S. Ct. at 1599. It is apparent to this court that Ford was motivated by profits
rather than safety when it put into the stream of commerce a vehicle which it knew was
dangerous and defective. Ignoring its own data and the advice of its engineers, Ford
manufactured a vehicle prone to rollover accidents in spite of being aware that such accidents
result in more serious injury than any other. The trial court characterized Ford's conduct as
"the crassest form of corporate indifference." R. at 11610-11. We conclude that Ford's
conduct was highly reprehensible as well.
compensatory damages totaled of $51,146.00 - a ratio of 117 to 1- on a claim of anti-trust
violation and interference with contractual rights); TXO Prod. Corp. v. Alliance Resources
Corp., 509 U.S. 443, 113 S. Ct. 2711, 125 L. Ed.2d 366 (1993) (upholding a $10 million
punitive damages award where compensatory damages totaled $19,000.00-a ratio of 526 to
1-on a common-law slander of title action).
Sanctions for comparable misconduct
Comparing the punitive damages award and the civil or criminal penalties that could
be imposed for comparable misconduct provides a third indicium of excessiveness. Gore,
517 U.S. at 583. In Gore the conduct of the defendant was comparable to a violation of
Alabama's Deceptive Trade Practices Act which carried a maximum civil penalty of
$2,000.00. The Court noted that the $2 million punitive damages award was "substantially
greater than the statutory fines available in Alabama and elsewhere for similar malfeasance."
Id. In this case however there is no comparable civil statutory penalty for the manufacture
and sale of a defective product. The same is true for criminal penalties.See footnote
23
Thus this portion
of the Gore indicia of excessiveness is not applicable. In any event in the same context the
court also observed "[m]oreover, at the time BMW's policy was first challenged, there does
not appear to have been any judicial decision in Alabama or elsewhere indicating that
application of [a Deceptive Trade Practices Act] might give rise to such severe punishment."
Id. (emphasis added). Here, Ford complains that nothing in Indiana's judicial history could
have provided it with fair notice that such a huge award of punitive damages would be
assessed. We disagree.
In this jurisdiction we will not reverse an award of damages as being excessive unless
the damages appear so unreasonable as to convince us the jury was motivated by passion or
prejudice. Archem, Inc. v. Simo, 549 N.E.2d 1054, 1061 (Ind. Ct. App. 1990), cert.
dismissed, 498 U.S. 1076, 111 S. Ct. 944, 112 L. Ed.2d 1032 (1991). A high ratio of
punitive damages alone will not be grounds to reverse an award of punitive damages. Id.
The purpose of punitive damages is to punish the wrongdoer and thereby deter others from
engaging in similar conduct in the future. Id. When reviewing an award of punitive damages
we consider two primary factors. First, the nature of the tort and the extent of the actual
damages sustained should be considered. Second, the economic wealth of the defendant
should be considered. Indiana & Michigan Elec. Co. v. Stevenson, 173 Ind. App. 329, 363
N.E.2d 1254, 1263 (1977), trans. denied; Bright v. Kuehl, 650 N.E.2d 311, 316 (Ind. Ct.
App. 1995), reh'g denied.
This case was presented to the jury on the Ammermans' assertion of strict liability in
tort pursuant to Indiana's Product Liability Act. See Ind. Code § 33-1-1.5-1 to 33-1-1.5-5.See footnote
24
Liability for injury under the Act is premised on the claim that the product in question is in
a defective condition unreasonably dangerous. Id.; Rupert v. Mach. Tool Corp., 661 N.E.2d
826, 827 (Ind. Ct. App. 1995). As we have previously observed no issue has been raised in
this appeal challenging whether the Ammermans carried their burden of proving that Ford
put into the stream of commerce a vehicle that was in a defective condition unreasonably
dangerous. The question posed is whether Ford did so "willfully or wantonly with conscious
disregard for probable injury, or with gross negligence . . . ." R. at 11610. "Willful and
wanton misconduct" is defined as "a course of action which shows actual or deliberate
intention to cause harm or which, under existing conditions, shows either an utter
indifference or conscious disregard for the rights of others." Id. The record shows that Ford
was aware that rollover accidents "tend [] to be more serious than any others." R. at 8483
(cross examination of Ford executive). Although Ford protests loudly to the contrary, the
record also shows the jury had before it clear and convincing evidence from which it could
conclude that in the manufacture of the 1986 Bronco II 4x4 Ford acted willfully and
wantonly in that Ford "show[ed] either an utter indifference or conscious disregard for the
rights of others." R. at 11611.
In Emerson v. Markle, 539 N.E.2d 35 (Ind. Ct. App. 1989) this court upheld punitive
damages of $150,000 where the compensatory award totaled $1,000 -a ratio of 150 to 1-
when the defendant had been found to have launched a crusade to "intentionally and
maliciously" destroy the plaintiff's reputation and career. Id. at 40. For similar conduct, in
Archem we upheld punitive damages of $750,000 where the compensatory award totaled
$11,000 -a ratio of 68 to 1. Ford's conduct in this case was willful and wanton. In our view
Ford knew or should have known that an award of punitive damages could have resulted in
a ratio as high as 100 to 1. See Emerson, 539 N.E.2d 35. That is especially so given that
Ford's economic wealth ($219 billion in total assets, $21.7 billion in net worth, and $5.3
billion in net profits) is a factor to be considered in assessing punitive damages. See, e.g.,
Dow Chemical v. St. Vincent Hosp., 553 N.E.2d 144 (Ind. Ct. App. 1990) (finding
appellant's total assets of $14.356 billion sufficient to sustain a punitive damages award of
$5 million). We conclude that as remitted the award of punitive damages was not excessive.
Judgment affirmed.
SHARPNACK, C.J., and GARRARD, J., concur.
On motion and upon such terms as are just the court may relieve a party or his legal representative from an entry of default, final order, or final judgment . . . for . . . any reason justifying relief from the operation of the judgment, other than those reasons set forth in sub-paragraphs (1), (2), (3), and (4).
They've taken advantage of nine hundred other people on those cars that were worth more . . . . If what Mr. Cox said is true, they have profited some four million dollars on those automobiles. Four million dollars profits that they have made that were wrongfully taken from people. That's wrong, ladies and gentlemen. They ought not be permitted to keep that. You ought to do something about it . . . I urge each and every one of you and hope that each and every one of you have the courage to do something about it. Because, ladies and gentlemen, I ask you to return a verdict of four million
dollars in this case to stop it.
BMW of North America, Inc. v. Gore, 646 So.2d 619, 627 (Ala. 1994).
change a tortfeasor's unlawful conduct in another State." Gore, 116 S. Ct. at 1598, n.20 (emphasis in the original).
How do you make an impression on a company of this size . . . . If its a food service worker, would you hesitate to award Five Dollars and Fifty Cents ($5.50) for one hour. No. There are three ways that I thought up to suggest to you . . . these are suggestions. This is your business. One is to triple the compensatory damages. Whatever award that you make for each of these girls, you triple it for the punitive damages. The second is to take that number, that Eighty-three Dollars ($83.00) a unit that we know they saved, that two and a half percent of that additional profit that Ford made, and multiply it times the 468,000 units they anticipated. And I did the math last night and it is Thirty-eight Million Nine Hundred and Forty-Four Thousand
dollars ($38,944,000). . . . The other way is to take that same number times
the number of vehicles that they actually sold and say to Ford Motor
Company, we are going to take away from you this time, so you never do
this again, the profit that you should not have earned on the Bronco II.
We're going to take it away from you.' Fifty-eight Million One Hundred
Thousand Dollars ($58,100,000)."
R. at 11455-56.
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