So I am sure you have read by now, family of deceased Minnesota woman has filed a suit against the manufacturer of the peanutbutter that had salmonella.
Now – as Americans, we probably think this lawsuit is justified. Company had a duty to make a safe product – roaches, mold and salmonella found in Georgia facility, company should have to pay for death of someone that results. Right?
Well what about the local health department that approved this facility. Did they play a role? What about the cleaning staff that saw and did nothing about mold and dead insects in or near the product? Should they be involved in the suit? What about the company that took the peanut butter and packaged it for sale. Do they have an obligation to test before disbursement?
And do you think it is right that the peanut company will likely argue to a jury that they are sorry, but the woman who died was old and wasn’t going to live much longer anyway?
Welcome to litigation. Who is responsible? Even if they clearly messed up – should they be allowed to blame the plaintiff? These are all issues we see everyday. What do you think? Should others be held responsible? Is it wrong to file suit when the vicitim is elderly?
I hope suits like this spark public debate about accountability. Afterall – how else can the family hold the company accountable? Send them a strong letter? Demand an apology?