Hal Goldblatt v. Progressive

Summary

In this bad-faith insurance case, plaintiff Hal Goldblatt suffered a traumatic brain injury after being hit by a car. A jury found the driver who hit Goldblatt responsible for his injuries, yet insurer Progressive failed to provide financial assistance. This required Hal and his wife, Shawn Goldblatt, to receive loans for the home treatment he required. Progressive eventually paid the claim after months of delays.

Defendant Progressive claims this delay followed standard industry practice for a complex claim with this valuation. Additionally, they emphasize that the claim was eventually paid to Mr. Goldblatt.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to technical difficulties the first few moments of the plaintiff opening statements in phase 1 are not available

Outcome

Verdict for plaintiff.

Total damages: $108 million.
Including $8 million in compensatory damages and $100 million in punitive damages.