Gallagher v. Mercy Med. Ctr., Inc.

When multiple tortfeasors contribute to a plaintiff's injuries, the plaintiff may choose how to structure his or her litigation against one or all tortfeasors in pursuit of compensation for those injuries. The law, however, will permit the plaintiff to obtain only one full satisfaction of his or her injuries. Such satisfaction will preclude the plaintiff from pursuing other tortfeasors for compensation for the same injuries.

Petitioner Michele Gallagher ("Ms. Gallagher" or "Petitioner") was injured in an automobile accident. She filed a lawsuit and ultimately obtained a settlement from the…