Clarkson v. Wright

108 Ill.2d 129 (1985)

Seatbelt defense.

In an action for injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident at an intersection, the Circuit Court, Peoria County, James Bumgarner, J., reduced plaintiff’s jury award based upon a jury finding that plaintiff was 50% negligent. The Appellate Court, Third District, affirmed, 121 Ill.App.3d 230, 76 Ill.Dec. 668, 459 N.E.2d 305. Plaintiff’s petition for leave to appeal was allowed. The Supreme Court, Goldenhersh, J., held that evidence of failure to wear seat belt was not admissible in the action with respect to either question of liability or damages. Read More

"The law is not an inflexible structure whose walls restrain progress. Rather, it needs to be nudged molded and shaped. An able advocate best represents his client by convincing the Courts of that fact."

John E. Cassidy. Sr. (1896-1984)
Firm Founder Illinois Attorney General (1938-1940)