Opinion ID: 2391903
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 6

Heading: handbooks as evidence

Text: Elk attempted to introduce Builders Transport's Handbook and Directory to impeach Jackson's testimony that he did not know of Builder's safety requirement that its drivers have v-boards, a safety device that helps secure cargo. The trial court did not allow the handbook into evidence for this purpose, although witnesses were allowed to testify later that the handbook contained this requirement. Even though there was no prejudice in this situation, Elk should have been allowed to use the handbook for impeachment purposes when Jackson testified that he was unaware of a requirement concerning v-boards. Finally, the trial court correctly refused to give an instruction proffered by Elk that would have informed the jury that a jury award is exempt from federal income tax liability. We specifically rejected the use of such an instruction in W.M. Bashlin, supra . Because the trial court erred in instructing on strict liability we reverse and remand. Reversed and remanded.