Opinion ID: 1294280
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Limited Evidence

Text: Appellants argue the trial court unduly limited their evidence to mesothelioma. We disagree. Appellants' claim against Allied arises out of Mr. Henderson's experience working with brake products manufactured by Allied and his diagnosis of mesothelioma. Appellants argue the trial court erred in excluding certain evidence concerning other asbestos-related diseases and limiting evidence to cases, reports, and studies showing a link between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma. The trial court correctly excluded evidence concerning other asbestos-related diseases because such evidence was merely cumulative of evidence actually allowed. See, e.g., Commerce Center of Greenville, Inc. v. W. Powers McElveen & Assocs., Inc., 347 S.C. 545, 559, 556 S.E.2d 718, 726 (Ct.App.2001) (Generally, there is no abuse of discretion where the excluded testimony is merely cumulative of other evidence proffered to the jury.) Appellants were given the opportunity to present evidence concerning asbestos and Mr. Henderson's asbestos-related illness. Because the factual issues of the case were fully aired, the exclusion of cumulative reports and studies did not prejudice Appellants. Furthermore, such evidence was arguably irrelevant under Rule 403, SCRE. See, e.g., State v. Adams, 354 S.C. 361, 378, 580 S.E.2d 785, 794 (Ct.App.2003) (A trial judge's decision regarding the comparative probative value and prejudicial effect of evidence should be reversed only in exceptional circumstances. We review a trial court's decision regarding Rule 403 pursuant to the abuse of discretion standard and are obligated to give great deference to the trial court's judgment.) (internal citations omitted).