Grimshaw v. Ford Motor Company, 119 Cal.App.3d 757 (4th Dist. 1981)

https://law.justia.com/cases/california/court-of-appeal/3d/119/757.html

1. The court's opinion indicates that the fuel system could be made safe at a cost of approximately four to eight dollars per car. Why wasn't every car made safe?

2. Who was ultimately responsible for the decision to continue production of the Pinto without making the fuel system safe? What values gained priority in making that decision? What were possible alternatives? What would you have done? If a majority of decision makers disagreed with you, what would you have done then?

3. Do you think Harley Copp should be held personally responsible for Grimshaw's injuries? Would you have advised Mr. Copp to have done anything differently?If so, what would be your advice? What would you have done if you happened by chance to have had dinner seated next to Mr. Copp and he informed you about the fuel tank problems on your own 1972 Pinto?

4. Did Ford's production of the Pinto and its conduct with regard to the fuel tank violate any state or federal laws? As a result of the Pinto problem, should any laws be enacted?

5. How could Ford Motor Company calculate the damages to be paid in the event of the death or the serious injury in a Pinto fire so as to conclude that the dollar amount was significantly less than redoing the fuel system?

6. Would you change the jury's verdict?