A recent case involving electric vehicle maker Tesla and one of its employees has resulted in a troubling verdict. An Indiana jury found Tesla and the employee, Kyle Kaszuba, partially liable in a 2017 crash that involved a company-owned Ford truck and a motorcycle. The victim, Christopher Dugan, suffered a partial amputation, permanent disfigurement, and a traumatic brain injury as a result of the incident.
The jury decided that Tesla and Kaszuba must pay more than $42 million in damages to Dugan, with the victim being deemed 30% liable for the crash. This ruling reduced the initial award amount from $60 million to $42 million. Dugan’s legal team had originally sought a much higher award of $191 million, highlighting the seriousness of the injuries sustained in the accident.
The crash took place at an Indianapolis gas station, where Kaszuba, operating a 2014 Ford vehicle owned by Tesla, reportedly drove across two lanes of traffic while trying to turn into a parking lot near the station. This reckless maneuver resulted in a collision with Dugan’s motorcycle, throwing him off and causing severe injuries. Dugan’s complaint directly blamed Tesla and Kaszuba for negligence, citing their actions as the primary cause of the accident.
Tesla’s legal team defended Kaszuba’s actions, arguing that he was not at fault for the crash. They claimed that Dugan’s proximity to another vehicle made it difficult for Kaszuba to see him, shifting some of the blame onto the victim. On the other hand, Dugan’s attorney highlighted Kaszuba’s rush to get to work as a contributing factor to the accident, emphasizing the importance of accountability in such cases.
The gas station where the crash occurred is situated near a ramp to I-465, the ring road surrounding Indianapolis. This location likely added to the traffic congestion and complexity of the situation, potentially influencing the outcomes of the incident. The proximity to a major highway underscores the significance of safe driving practices and awareness on the road.
The case involving Tesla, Kyle Kaszuba, and Christopher Dugan serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of negligence on the road. The substantial damages awarded to the victim highlight the importance of accountability and responsibility in driving, particularly in cases involving vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists. It is crucial for all parties involved to uphold safety standards and exercise caution to prevent such tragic incidents from occurring in the future.
Leave a Reply