Youngers (Archuleta) v. R.J. Reynolds

Summary

In this tobacco trial, decedent Edward Archuleta died from coronavirus complications after his diagnosis with lung cancer. His representatives claim that the cigarettes he smoked since he was 14 were defectively designed, leading to his eventual cancer diagnosis.

This defective design claim rests upon the inhalability and nicotine content of the cigarettes. Easier inhalability and nicotine content are intentional design elements to make cigarettes as addictive as possible.

Defendant R.J. Reynolds counters these statements. Their representatives state that these characteristics are found in all cigarettes and that all cigarettes possess inherent dangers.

Outcome

Verdict for defendant.