Bernard Tully Personal Injury Lawyer. Phone: 412-281-8700
Discussing a legal term that often triggers curiosity and fascination: the nuclear verdict. Especially common in cases involving wrongful death and catastrophic injuries, a nuclear verdict signifies a significant monetary award granted by a jury. Yet, what precisely defines a nuclear verdict, and how does it impact wrongful death cases? Exploring this concept together will shed light on these questions.
Understanding Nuclear Verdicts
In the realm of personal injury law, a nuclear verdict is characterized by a jury award exceeding $10 million. This substantial sum typically reflects the severity of the damage suffered by the victim or their family. In wrongful death cases, where individuals have lost their lives due to negligence or misconduct, nuclear verdicts serve as a form of financial compensation intended to address the profound emotional and financial losses endured by the surviving relatives.
Influential Factors
Several factors contribute to the likelihood of a nuclear verdict in wrongful death cases. Firstly, the egregiousness of the defendant’s actions plays a crucial role. When a jury perceives the defendant’s conduct as particularly reckless or negligent, they may be inclined to deliver a substantial award as a form of punitive action. Additionally, the severity of the victim’s injuries or the extent of their suffering can evoke strong empathy and outrage from the jury, further influencing their decision to grant a nuclear verdict.
Examples of Nuclear Verdict Triggers
Instances of corporate misconduct or blatant disregard for public safety often serve as catalysts for nuclear verdicts. For example, repeated instances of negligence or non-compliance with safety regulations by large corporations can enrage juries, prompting them to impose significant financial penalties as a deterrent. Infamous cases, such as the well-known McDonald’s hot coffee lawsuit, highlight the potential consequences of corporate negligence and the subsequent pursuit of nuclear verdicts as a means of accountability.
Legal Representation and Advocacy
Navigating the complexities of wrongful death cases, particularly those involving the pursuit of nuclear verdicts, necessitates experienced legal representation. Bernie Tully, a seasoned personal injury lawyer at Tully and Tully Law Firm, brings over 40 years of expertise to the table. Together with his son, Michael Tully, Bernie specializes in advocating for families affected by wrongful deaths throughout Pennsylvania. Their unwavering commitment to securing justice for their clients underscores their dedication to serving the community.
Our main focus is honesty. We always preach it. We are passionate about trying to help any injured person or family member with their case. Questions about the blog? CALL US!
Bernard Tully Allegheny Wrongful Death Lawyer. Phone: 412-281-8700 and 1-800-518-0050


