Cybex hit by $66 million US lawsuit

A New York woman rendered a quadriplegic when a 270 kilogram Cybex weight machine fell on her in 2004 has won a US$66 million jury verdict.

The verdict in the New York State Supreme Court presents a major problem for the US manufacturer which is responsible for $49.5 million of the judgment.

The award in 30-year-old Natalie Barnhard's favour followed an eight-week product liability trial. The incident apparently involved a 20-year old piece of equipment, which Barnard apparently pulled over on herself when stretching. The then 24-year-old Barnhard was at work as a physical therapist assistant at Amherst Orthopedic Physical Therapy in Buffalo, New York State when the accident occurred.

Cybex, which apparently has less than $4 million in insurance to cover the claim, said it will "vigorously pursue" an appeal.

In a statement, Cybex Chief Executive John Aglialoro said "this piece of equipment has been in continuous operation for over 25 years in the same facility as Ms. Barnhard was injured, to the current date, with no incidents reported other than this one event," adding "we strongly believe that Cybex was not negligent and is in no way responsible for this tragic accident."

Cybex's statement said Barnhard "pulled a Cybex weight machine over on herself" in 2004. Barnhard's attorney, Kevin English, said while doing a shoulder stretch, Barnhard had her hand on top of the leg extension machine, and it fell onto her when she stretched back with her shoulder and arm.