Driver High on Marijuana Kills One and Paralyzes Another

A police officer pulled over plaintiff's vehicle to the shoulder of the highway when defendant-driver struck the police officer and plaintiff's vehicle. The impact killed the plaintiff, and paralyzed the police officer. Plaintiff's estate sued, arguing that defendant admitted to using marijuana just before the accident, and thus, was negligent by driving in an unreasonable manner. Sidebar: The defendant-driver pleaded guilty to driving while intoxicated and transporting marijuana, and is serving 15 years in prison.

VERDICT: $49,644,257.55

Anthony Pederferri, et. al. v. Jeremy White, et. al., Case No. 56-2009-00357429-CU-PO-VTA (Ventura, CA, Hon. Vincent O'Neill, January 25, 2011).