July 13, 2021—The Supreme Court of the state of Washington has officially overturned an appellate court ruling and reinstated a $81.5 million verdict in the wrongful death claim brought by the family of a deceased auto mechanic, according to a press release.
The original claim was brought by the family and estate of Jerry "Doy" Coogan of Kettle Falls, Wash., who died in 2015 at the age of 67 from complications of mesothelioma, a form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure.
Coogan worked for decades with brake pads containing asbestos and other parts that were supplied by defendant Genuine Parts Company and sold through defendant National Automotive Parts Association (NAPA).
Following a 12-week trial, the jury unanimously returned the $81.5 million verdict for compensatory damages against the two companies. After post judgement interest, the current amount of the judgement exceeds $95 million.
