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Torts/Personal Injury

May 18, 2026

Motorcyclist asks California Supreme Court to revive $30M Suzuki punitive award

Plaintiff attorneys say a recent appellate ruling overturning punitive damages against Suzuki conflicts with longstanding California law and undermines jury findings in a closely watched motorcycle defect case.

Motorcyclist asks California Supreme Court to revive $30M Suzuki punitive award
T. Gabe Houston

A motorcyclist injured in an Orange County crash has asked the California Supreme Court to review a ruling overturning a $30 million punitive damages award against Suzuki Motor Corp., arguing the decision conflicts with California law governing proof of corporate wealth and appellate prejudice review.

The petition challenges a March 18 unpublished opinion by the 4th District Court of Appeal, Division 3, which vacated a $41 million judgment in favor of Thomas Joseph Soulliere, orde...

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