Yet another hefty payment must be dished out by PacifiCorp as a Portland jury decided Tuesday that the utility company owes another $42 million in damages to ten victims of the 2020 Labor Day Wildfires, reported by KOIN. With more than a whiff of smoke still lingering over the legal landscape, this ruling could lead to PacifiCorp's liability surging into the billions.
According to Fortune, the sum includes over $5 million in economic damages and more than $23 million non-economic damages, with both figures inflating by 25% for punitive implications. This decision stems from a previous finding which held PacifiCorp responsible for not shutting off power despite receiving red alerts from top fire officials.
Stacking up the damages, this judgment brings the total owed by PacifiCorp to $220 million for 36 victims of the wildfires, as stated in KOIN's coverage. Yet, countless other members of the class action suit are lined up and waiting for their day in court.
Last month nine plaintiffs hit the jackpot with an $85 million award following the already hefty $90 million to 17 homeowners, causing ripples and ensuring that PacifiCorp's appeals won't stop the flow of payouts. With the verdict oiling the wheels of justice, ABC News reports thousands more are poised for their own trials while the sides are seeking a middle ground via mediation which could culminate in a settlement.
In response to the payout, PacifiCorp pledged loyalty to its customers stating, "The safety of PacifiCorp’s customers and communities is our top priority," per a statement obtained by KOIN. The company further emphasized, "The company has settled hundreds of claims relating to the Labor Day 2020 fires and remains committed to settling all reasonable claims for actual damages under Oregon law."
