Ernest D. Hargis v. United Farm Bureau

The instant appeal presents a situation in which the driver of an automobile, defendant-appellant Gary L. Stauffer, contends there was insufficient evidence of "wanton or wilful misconduct" under Indianas guest statute, IND. CODE 9-3-3-1, supporting a jury verdict in favor of his passenger, plaintiff-appellee Daniel L. Lothamer, in the amount of $59,000 for injuries which Lothamer sustained in a one-car collision which occurred in Fort Wayne, Indiana. In addition, numerous other issues are presented for our review, among them that the damages awarded were excessive, certain evidence was improperly admitted, instructions improperly given and refused, and the jurys verdict was invalid due to alleged juror coercion and statements purportedly made to jurors by the bailiff. We affirm.