Wisconsin High Court: Passenger Not Liable for Damages in Fatal Crash

June 4, 2008

The Wisconsin Supreme Court says a passenger in a vehicle that caused a fatal drunken driving crash does not have to pay another $250,000.

The decision means Badger Mutual Insurance Co., which insured David Schrimpf, will not pay more damages to the widow of Chris Richards.

Richards was killed when a vehicle driven by Schrimpf’s friend, Robert Zimmerlee, crashed into his car in the Milwaukee area.

Zimmerlee and Schrimpf were teenagers and had been drinking beer bought by one of Schrimpf’s co-workers.

They agreed to pay Richards’ widow more than $1.5 million in settlements.

But the court says Schrimpf is not responsible for his co-worker’s actions, and therefore Badger Mutual does not have to pay more.

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June 5, 2008 at 12:37 pm

Bob says:

I read this article 4 times and it got more confusing each time. I was relieved to see I was not the only one confused.
June 4, 2008 at 6:51 am

lastbat says:

There's a bunch on google when you search for David Schrimpf. Once again, a poorly written article on IJ. C'mon editors - wake up.
June 4, 2008 at 6:22 am

johnny says:

google david schrimpf - read the fourth article which is the Supreme Court of WI decision. it really explains all questions.