Focht v. Rabada

Opinion by

Hoffman, J.,

The question in this case is whether, in certain circumstances, punitive damages may be imposed on a driver who, while intoxicated, operates an automobile causing injury to another.

Plaintiff was standing in front of his automobile when it was struck in the rear by defendant’s automobile. The impact knocked plaintiff thirty feet. Defendant’s automobile then continued on and struck another vehicle. Prior to the accident, defendant had been parked in front of a club on the opposite side of the street at a distance of 140 feet from plaintiff.

Defendant admitted liability.…