RABUN COUNTY, GA–Collaborating Don Fountain of Clark, Fountain, La Vista, Littky-Rubin & Whitman, Ashby Thelen Lowry Catastrophic Personal Injury Lawyers led a lawsuit against Malibu Boats, LLC, after the boat manufacturer’s defect changed a Georgia’s family’s tragic life.
The case of Batchelder against Malibu Boats, LLC was centered on the tragic loss of Ryan Paul Batchelder, aged 7. The boy, who was swept out of a designated seat at the bow during a 5mph bow-swamping incident that led to his death from an unprotected propeller on the boat, died after he came into contact with it. This legal victory has changed the safety standards for boating.
Malibu Boats has issued a global safety warning which prohibits passengers sitting in the bow seat while the boat is moving. They have also launched a new campaign to distribute safety labels. The updated labels include warning stickers and comprehensive guidelines to avoid bow swamping.
Older-Model Malibu Boat Owners, Operators & Passengers May Be at Risk
Ashby Thelen Lowery is taking decisive measures to improve consumer safety. They are trying to reach out to potential Malibu owners who could still be at risk. This includes allowing passengers in the bow seats to remain in the boat while it’s in motion.
Malibu Boats should be contacted by owners of affected models for the latest safety information. This includes those who operate.
1986-2002 Sunsetter 1989-1994 Euro-f3 Sunsetter
Mystere Euro-f3 1990-1993 215LX
1993-1998 Echelon LX
1995-2014 Response LX
1998-2003 Sportster LX
Sunsetter LXi 1999-2006
Sunsetter 2/3 XTi 2002-2007
Sunsetter 21 XTi 2003-2008
2003-2011 Response LXi
Ashby Thelen Lowry focuses on creating a lasting impact
The case spearheaded by Drew Ashby is an example of how a legal advocate can make sweeping changes to industry safety standards. Ashby has dedicated his career representing survivors and families of those who have been wrongfully killed.
The decision in this case led to a cascade reforms within the boating industry. It set new safety standards and warned other manufacturers.
The jury found Malibu Boats, LLC, as well as Malibu Boats West, Inc. negligent. The jury awarded a staggering $200 million, including $80 million to cover Ryan’s suffering and $120 million as punitive damages.
This is the highest award in Georgia history for pain and suffer in a wrongful-death case.
The article Marietta Law firm Secures Landmark Legal Success to Transform Boating Safety first appeared on Attorney at Law Magazine.