Actress-turned-lifestyle guru Gwyneth Paltrow has been awarded $1 in damages and cleared of fault over a 2016 ski crash in Utah. The case has finally come to a close after years of legal back-and-forth, during which the other skier involved accused Paltrow of being responsible for the crash and causing her a concussion. The ruling has been hailed as a victory for Paltrow, and highlights the complexities of determining fault in legal cases involving recreational activities.
Gwyneth Paltrow has been cleared of fault for a 2016 ski crash that took place at a resort in Utah. Retired optometrist Terry Sanderson had claimed that the actress resulted in his life-changing injuries when she crashed into him whilst skiing. Mr Sanderson sought $300,000 in damages while Ms Paltrow, 50, countersued for $1 plus legal fees.
During the trial, dozens of witnesses offered contradictory stories about what exactly had happened. Following three hours of deliberation, a jury found Mr Sanderson entirely at fault and awarded Paltrow the nominal damages she had requested. The case was unusual in that it hinged on skiing etiquette and who had the right of way.
Mr Sanderson claimed that Paltrow had slammed into him on a beginner slope at the Deer Valley Resort in Park City, skiing away while he lay unconscious on the ground with broken ribs. He said that the accident had caused him life-altering brain trauma. Paltrow, however, denied the allegations, stating that Mr Sanderson had skied directly into her back while she was skiing down the slope with her children.
During the trial, lawyers focused on undermining Mr Sanderson’s claim that the accident had ruined his health. They pointed out that he had taken a long list of trips after the accident to various parts of the world, including South America, Europe, and Morocco. They also accused him of trying to exploit Paltrow’s fame, highlighting an email he had sent to his daughters shortly after the incident, in which he wrote that he was now “famous”.
The trial also saw Paltrow questioned about a range of issues unrelated to the case, including her height, fashion, and alleged jealousy of Taylor Swift. There was also a mini courtroom battle over whether Paltrow could provide a “gift” to court security staff, which the judge ultimately disallowed.
In the moments after the verdict was announced, Ms Paltrow left the courtroom without making a comment, but later she stopped briefly to speak to Mr Sanderson, telling him: “I wish you well.” Mr Sanderson, meanwhile, called the decision “very disappointing” and stood by his account of the events that took place.
Paltrow’s lawyer, Steve Owens, said that the actress had “a history of advocating for what she believes in,” adding that “this situation was no different and she will continue to stand up for what is right.” Kristan VanOrman, one of Mr Sanderson’s lawyers, said after the verdict that she was “not starstruck” during the trial and that she had a newfound respect for Paltrow after seeing the intense media attention that surrounds her.
In conclusion, the recent decision to award Gwyneth Paltrow $1 and clear her of fault over the ski crash serves as a reminder of the complex nature of legal battles. While some may argue that the outcome was unjust, it is important to respect the decision of the court and move forward. As we continue to monitor the developments surrounding this case, we hope that all parties involved can find closure and move on from this unfortunate incident.
