Long v. R.J. Reynolds

Summary

In this Engle-progeny case, decedent Carolyn Long developed respiratory disease in 2002 after smoking cigarettes since the 1950s. Long's husband sues R.J. Reynolds, arguing that Carolyn's respiratory disease was caused by Reynolds' concealment of the dangers of smoking.

Attorneys for Long argue that Carolyn was deceived by Reynolds' marketing, switching to "Light" brands as she believed that these were safer for her. This, they claim, was an example of another one of Reynolds' lies that Carolyn fell victim to.

R.J. Reynolds disputes claims that Carolyn was addicted to smoking, displaying testimony that she did not smoke around family and that she successfully quit when she wanted to. Attorneys for the company frame smoking as a choice that she made, rather than an uncontrollable addiction.

Outcome

Verdict for plaintiff.
Total damages: $9,750,000

Apportionment of fault:
Carolyn Long: 30%
R.J. Reynolds: 60%
Philip Morris: 10%