Court Opinion

ID: 9774890
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-29 18:37:14.049696+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T07:32:16.272817
License: Public Domain

WINTERSHEIMER, Justice,
dissenting.
I respectfully dissent from the majority opinion because the Court of Appeals did not commit reversible error in determining that the trial judge properly exercised his discretion in denying a motion for a new trial on the basis of inadequate damages, and the remarks by counsel do not constitute reversible error.
Denial of a new trial on the basis of inadequacy of damages is a matter for the exercise of the sound discretion of the trial judge. The reversal of such a decision by a reviewing court must be undertaken only with great restraint and only in exceptional cases. Aker v. Smith, Ky., 290 S.W.2d 496 (1956). Such exceptional circumstances do not exist here.
CR 59.01(d) provides that a new trial may be granted on the issue of inadequate damages where the verdict is the result of passion or prejudice and a disregard of the evidence or the instructions of the trial court. A verdict of zero damages is not an irregular or incomplete verdict. Spalding v. Shinkle, Ky.App., 774 S.W.2d 465 (1989). The mere fact that the plaintiff receives a verdict on the question of liability, does not automatically mean that he is entitled to damages. Carlson v. McElroy, Ky.App., 584 S.W.2d 754 (1979). The jury is not required to accept as complete truth the testimony of the plaintiff or physicians or experts regarding claimed injuries for pain and suffering. Davidson v. Vogler, Ky., 507 S.W.2d 160 (1974). It is the responsibility of the jury to consider all the evidence under all the facts and circumstances. The record in this case contains conflicting testimony and the award of zero damages is reasonable and supported by the evidence.
Smith was not denied a fair and impartial trial because of the alleged improper statements and conduct of defense counsel or any actions by the trial judge. A careful review of the voluminous record in this case indicates nothing which amounts to reversible error. Clearly there were comments and exchanges during trial which were harsh and perhaps ill-advised. However, if we are to accept the adversary system of determining a verdict, strong language must also be accepted during the trial process. It is the primary responsibility of the trial judge to control the behavior of counsel and the progress of the case.
*177One comment which is of some concern is “I wonder how many of you all would’ve objected to a biopsy.” This comment, given in argument, borders on the “Golden Rule” prohibitions previously announced by this Court. However, when taken in context of the total trial, it does not appear to be unduly prejudicial.
Considering all the circumstances of this case, in light of the standard of review, I do not believe that the actions of counsel or the trial judge amount to reversible error. I do not believe that the statements made in this case rise to the degree of concern expressed in Risen v. Pierce, Ky., 807 S.W.2d 945 (1991). The Court of Appeals decided the matter correctly.
Smith received an essentially fair trial, and there is no reason for additional proceedings.
REYNOLDS and SPAIN, JJ., join in this dissent.