In a decisive move on Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court refused to entertain an appeal in a case involving alleged defects in Honda airbags, delivering a substantial setback to the plaintiff, Christy Williams. Williams had filed a lawsuit against American Honda Motor Co. Inc., claiming that defective airbags caused her eye injury after a car crash.
High Court Turns Down Honda Airbag Injury Case : Discovery Sanction Derails Lawsuit
The high court’s decision stems from a prior dismissal of Williams’ suit by a Texas federal judge. The judge had imposed a “litigation ending” discovery sanction, cutting Williams’ expert witnesses from the case. This action followed Williams’ alleged refusal to provide experts for depositions, causing significant delays in the proceedings. The Fifth Circuit later upheld the judge’s rulings.
Constitutional Challenge Ignites Legal Battle
In her October 25 petition to the Supreme Court, Williams contended that the district court’s sanctions order denied her constitutional right to a jury trial. Under Texas law, product liability plaintiffs must present liability experts at trial to support their claims.
