Gause v. Smithers

Edward William Hunt (Father) appeals a jury verdict in favor of Don Gause finding him liable under the family purpose .doctrine for damages caused by the negligence of Edward Raymond Hunt (Son). Father argues he cannot be found liable under the family purpose doctrine; Son’s actions were not a proximate cause of Gause’s injuries; he should be granted a new trial due to prejudicial statements and a defective verdict form; and the punitive damages award should be overturned as impermissible under the family purpose doctrine. We affirm in part and reverse in part.

FACTUAL/PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND

Gaus…