[Dr.Zoidberg]

Some people play the lottery, some people play the courts.

Don’t know whether this is a legitimate claim, but many people do see opportunity for personal gain in accidents.

[DieHard the Hunter]

> Don’t know whether this is a legitimate claim, but many people do see opportunity for personal gain in accidents.

Here in New Zealand this would have gone absolutely nowhere.

The ex-cop would have received socialized medicine paid for by ACC (Accident Compensation Commission) — a “no fault” scheme. He would have received rehabilitation to the point where he could work again — also covered by ACC. If he required mods to his house or car to help him rehabilitate — also paid by ACC.

But no windfall riches: just enough to put you back — as near as possible — to where you were before the mishap.

OSH (Occupational Safety & Health) would have investigated the workplace and found the cop shop either guilty or no. If guilty, a fine would have been applied.

No personal injury lawsuits would have been possible: it is a legal concept not recognized in New Zealand.

The system works very well.

[SECURE AMERICA]

Some people play the lottery, some people play the courts.
Don’t know whether this is a legitimate claim, but many people do see opportunity for personal gain in accidents.

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I won't comment directly to your statement about opportunity for personal gain but more to a legitimate claim.
As a former Police Officer and Correctional Officer (Fire Arms Safety Officer) I can assure you that any incident of a firearm discharge INCLUDING ACCIDENTAL, is documented and investigated thoroughly and handle as far as evidence, just as any crime scene would be.
The chair would have been photoed at the time and taken from use and placed in evidence. Really basic procedure for even a work safety fall out of a chair scenario. That the chair could not be produced at trial would speak volumes to me personally if I was a juror.