Ayers v. Straight

SCHULTZ, Justice.

In this case the owners of various property interests in a semi-truck and cargo damaged by its intoxicated driver sued two dram shops under Iowa Code section 123.92 (1981). In turn, the dram shops sought equitable contribution from the intoxicated driver, his employers and the owner of the truck.

All parties sought relief from adverse claims by motions for summary judgment. Ruling on such motions, the district court first refused to dismiss the actions for contribution based on active negligence. However, the district court then dismissed the plaintiffs’ actions against the…