Patton v. Williams

Darrell Hickman, Justice.

James Jack Patton sued for damages for personal injuries caused by a motor vehicle accident with the appellee. At issue was which party ran a red light. The appellee intentionally injected the existence of insurance into this case, and we reverse and remand for a new trial.

During direct examination, Patton testified that he felt obligated to pay his doctor’s bill. The appellee’s attorney immediately seized upon the word “obligated” and said:

Now, your Honor, he’s opening the door into his obligation to pay a bill that perhaps already has been paid. If he wants to open…