Summary Judgment Dismissing Punitive Damages in Scranton Area Trucking Accident

The tractor-trailer operator represented by our Scranton, PA, based partner, Jerry Connor, was allegedly distracted by use of his cell phone immediately prior to being involved in a serious multi-vehicle accident on Interstate 81 in Luzerne County and was confronted with a count for punitive damages contending his conduct was “outrageous or recklessly indifferent.” After extensive discovery initiated by Jerry which narrowed the issue, Jerry presented a Motion for Partial Summary Judgment contending the Plaintiff failed to meet her burden of demonstrating our operator’s conduct – including the alleged use of his cell phone – warranted a punitive damage claim to be considered by the Jury. The Trial Court agreed, dismissing the Plaintiff’s punitive damages claim which ultimately led to a successful resolution of the matter on behalf of our client.