Martin v. United States

Eighth graders Jeffrey Martin and Melvin Burrows (plaintiffs) were riding a motorbike home from school when they struck a sagging power line improperly maintained by the federal government (defendant). They filed a negligence action against the government, seeking compensation. Burrows suffered severe burns on most of his body, including his face. He endured multiple painful surgeries and his injuries subjected him to others’ revulsion, making him reclusive. The injuries also impacted his employment prospects. According to experts, before the injuries, Burrows likely would have become a construction worker earning approximately $9,500 per year during a four-year apprenticeship and $23,000 per year over a forty-two-year career. But his injuries would likely limit him to entry-level positions paying approximately $3,000 per year. Martin suffered severe burns to his right arm, back, and legs. In treatment, his arm was amputated, and he endured multiple skin grafts. Exposed to ridicule from his peers, Martin became withdrawn and short-tempered. His injuries also reduced his employment prospects. Experts anticipated that he too would likely have become a construction worker absent the accident. But after the accident, he was likely to be limited to working as a store clerk, earning approximately $6,250 per year. The district court concluded the government was negligent and considered the issue of damages.