Bowling v. Heil Co.

Two related issues are presented in this case: first, whether principles of comparative negligence or comparative fault are applicable to a products liability action based upon strict liability in tort; and second, whether the enactment of Ohio’s Contribution Among Joint Tortfeasors Act, R.C. 2307.31 and 2307.32, abolished the doctrine of joint and several liability. For the reasons that follow, we answer both questions in the negative.

I

The court of appeals below held that Ohio’s comparative negligence statute, R.C. 2315.19, does not apply to a products liability action grounded upon strict…