The Indiana Supreme Court has ruled that the state is not liable for damages in the case of the 2011 state fair stage collapse which resulted in seven deaths and injured nearly 100 people.
High winds caused the stage to collapse at the 2011 Indiana State Fair prior to a scheduled performance of a popular country music duo. The roof of the stage fell onto fans, killing seven people and injuring almost 100 more. Mid-America Sound Corporation was the vendor who provided the stage rigging for the event.
A reputable South Bend personal injury attorney can advise you of your legal options if you have been injured or lost a loved on in a similar accident.
Indiana Not Liable
The Indiana Supreme Court ruling overturns an appeals court ruling from 2015 which vacated the trial judge’s ruling that liability for damages could not be shifted from Mid-America Sound to the state. Though the company claimed the State Fair Commission had signed documents after the stage collapse releasing Mid-America Sound from claims related to their equipment, this court ruling states that the agreement’s language did not clearly address retroactive claims.
Millions in Victim Payments
While this ruling affirms that the state of Indiana is not liable for damages, which Mid-America Sound incurred due to the deadly stage collapse, to date, Indiana has paid $11 million to victims. The State General Assembly made $6 million in public funds available for settlements, and $5 million was allotted by the liability cap of the state. Multiple lawsuits have been filed against Mid-America Sound following the incident, though the damage amounts have been sealed by the court.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, you need an attorney who will fight to protect your interests and maximize your settlement. Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak is devoted to assisting our clients in their time of need.
Call us today at (574) 444-0741 or contact us online to request a free consultation with our dedicated team of personal injury attorneys.
