Wash. Jury Awards $81.5 Million in Auto Parts Asbestos Case Against NAPA, Genuine Parts Co.

TACOMA, Wash. –– A Washington jury has awarded $81.5 million at the conclusion of a trial involving asbestos-containing brake products against NAPA and Genuine Parts Co., HarrisMartin Publishing is reporting.

The Washington Superior Court for Pierce County jury reached the verdict this week after a 12-week trial and five-and-a-half hours of deliberations. Sources told HarrisMartin that the jury’s verdict was unanimous.

The claims were asserted on behalf of Doy Coogan, who allegedly developed peritoneal mesothelioma after exposure to asbestos-containing brake shoes, bulk brake bands, gaskets, packing, and clutches, distributed and sold by NAPA. The plaintiff also brought claims against Genuine …