Country Band Sugarland Being Sued for Negligence

Thursday, August 2, 2012

Country Band Sugarland Being Sued for Negligence

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

Last August, seven individuals attending a Sugarland concert at the Indiana State Fair were tragically killed when the venue’s outdoor stage toppled over onto them due to inclement weather. Over 45 additional people were injured in the accident.

In the wake of the accident, the country duo Sugarland expressed their condolences and returned to Indianapolis last month to perform at a benefit concert. However, the victims and/or their families have now decided to pursue legal action, suing the band and others for negligence.

According to E! News, “The complaint, filed in Marion Superior Court in Indianapolis…accuses Sugarland, concert promoter Live Nation, ESG Security, the stagehands’ union, and other companies of failing to ensure a safe environment for concertgoers that contributed to the tragedy. Among the plaintiffs in today’s legal action are the estates representing four of the people who died as well as dozens more who were injured.

According to court papers, both the band and producers failed to pay close attention to weather reports and pull the plug on the show before things turned hazardous. Sugarland was named in the suit because their contract included a clause giving the pair final say on whether to scrap a gig due to inclement weather.”

The personal injury attorneys representing the plaintiffs have indicated that their clients believe the tragedy was totally preventable. Additionally, the victims’ personal injury lawyers noted that the victims have significant medical bills and additional financial expenses as a result of the accident that they are looking to be compensated for. The amount of damages they are seeking was not disclosed.

Negligence and Wrongful Death

It is unknown whether the families of the 4 deceased victims will be pursuing a wrongful death claim as well.. A Chicago personal injury attorney would advise you that to pursue a wrongful death claim in Illinois, it must proven that the liable party did cause the death and if the victim had lived that he or she would have been able to file a personal injury claim for the injuries sustained from the accident.

If you or a family member has been hurt or killed as a result of another person’s negligence, speak with a Chicago personal injury attorney right away. No amount of money can ever undo the damage caused but it is possible to be awarded compensation to help your loved one and your family cope with the subsequent financial hardships.