$7.75M verdict in Minnesota case against aerosol duster maker

A federal jury in Minnesota has delivered a $7.75 million verdict against an aerosol duster manufacturer, whom the jury found partially at fault for a 2019 death linked to inhalant abuse.

Robins Kaplan LLP announced the verdict against CRC Industries Monday, stating the case is the first of its kind related to aerosol duster products to go to trial.

According to a news release, the case involved the death of Cynthia McDougall, who was killed in a highway crash in Baudette when she was hit head-on by a driver who'd huffed CRC Duster.

The jury delivered a $7.75 million verdict on liability, but did not award punitive damages. Under Minnesota law, product manufactures have a duty to prevent foreseeable misuse of their products.

In a note included with the verdict, the jury stated "we expect CRC to use this as an opportunity to be a leader in their industry, and spearhead an effort to address inhalant abuse."