After a four-day trial, a Scott County jury returned an unanimous verdict, finding that a General Electric blower motor, a component part of a furnace, did not contain a manufacturing defect. Thereafter, the Honorable Carol Hooten awarded Defendant GE its costs and disbursements incurred in the defense of this action.

Plaintiff, Illinois Farmers Insurance Company, sought subrogation for a property damage loss it paid to an insured on his second home when a gas furnace shut down and consequently, water pipes froze and burst, causing water damage throughout the home. Plaintiff alleged a defect occurred in the manufacture of the motor with regard to the lubrication system for the bearing cavity. Specifically, Plaintiff averred that during the manufacture of the product, not enough lubricant was injected into the system.

Counsel for GE argued that there was no evidence of a manufacturing defect but rather, the motor, which operated for six and a half years was not properly maintained, allowing dirt and other contaminants to enter the bearing cavity and wick the oil out of the lubrication system, and causing the motor to run at higher temperatures than intended, which eventually lead to the furnace shut-down.

After the return of the defense jury verdict, counsel for GE moved for costs and disbursements. GE won its costs, almost entirely, including fees paid for two expert witnesses.