Alami v. Volkswagen of America, Inc.

766 N.E.2d 574 (2002)

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Alami v. Volkswagen of America, Inc.

New York Court of Appeals
766 N.E.2d 574 (2002)

Facts

Silhadi Alami was driving with a blood alcohol content that exceeded the legal limit when his Volkswagen Jetta collided with a pole. Alami died from his injuries. Alami’s wife Shauna (plaintiff), as administratrix, sued Volkswagen of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) (defendant), claiming that a design defect in the vehicle enhanced Alami’s injuries. The trial court granted summary judgment in favor of Volkswagen on public-policy grounds, finding that Alami’s drunk driving was a serious violation of the law and that his injuries were the direct result of that violation. The appellate division affirmed. Alami appealed to the New York Court of Appeals.

Rule of Law

Issue

Holding and Reasoning (Wesley, J.)

Dissent (Rosenblatt, J.)

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