Blanchard v. Lifegear, Inc., et al.

Outcome: $5,450,000.00 verdict

Description: On 02/02/1998, Jerry Lynn Blanchard, a former stock handler at Quebecor in Depew, NY, was using a Lifegear Fitness Flyer machine in her home when the device collapsed. Ms. Blanchard suffered severe back injuries that have required four surgeries. The exercise device was a Christmas present that her boyfriend purchased at B.J.'s Wholesale Club, Inc. Insurance carriers for B.J. Wholesale Club, Inc. and Lifegear, Inc., a fitness concern selling Chinese-manufacturer equipment, have been ordered to pay $5.45 million following a weeklong trial before State Supreme Court Justice Joseph R. Glownia.