$33 Million Verdict Ordered in Rollover Crash

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By Aaron Hepker

Story Created: Mar 20, 2010 at 2:40 PM CST

Story Updated: Mar 20, 2010 at 2:40 PM CST

DES MOINES (AP) — An Iowa jury has awarded $33 million to seven passengers involved in a 2007 rollover van crash that left one person dead.

Polk County jurors said Cooper Tire and Rubber Co.'s manufacturing design caused the van's left rear tire to lose tread. The $33 million verdict is to be shared among seven plaintiffs with the largest share of $28.4 million going to one plaintiff who was paralyzed and lives in a nursing home.

Cooper attorney Terrance Miller denied the allegations against the Ohio company and questioned the tire's history and use. Miller also faulted the driver as inexperienced and possibly speeding.

The rollover happened on U.S. Highway 65 north of Bondurant and left 27-year-old passenger Assata Karlar of Des Moines dead.

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