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Union Pacific Railway Co. v. Botsford

141 U.S. 250 (1891)

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Union Pacific Railway Co. v. Botsford

United States Supreme Court
141 U.S. 250 (1891)

MJ

Facts

Clara Botsford (plaintiff) was a passenger in the sleeping car of a train. While the train was moving, the sleeping car’s upper berth allegedly fell and struck Botsford on the head. According to Botsford, the accident caused pain and permanent injuries, including spinal and brain injuries and a concussion. The Union Pacific Railway Company (Union Pacific) (defendant) owned the train. Botsford sued Union Pacific for negligence in the construction and care of the sleeping car. Three days before trial, Union Pacific sought to compel Botsford’s submission to a medical examination by a surgeon. The district court denied Union Pacific’s motion, and the case went to trial. The jury found in favor of Botsford and awarded her $10,000. Union Pacific appealed, challenging the court’s denial of its motion to compel the medical examination.

Rule of Law

Issue

Holding and Reasoning (Gray, J.)

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