Extra Innings · Beanballs & Bleachers
When the Net Came Down
Jasper v. Chicago National League Ball Club, Inc. (1999)
Charge: Negligence / constitutional challenge - fan struck by a foul ball after the club removed netting to build skyboxes (suit against the club)Court: Illinois Appellate Court, First DistrictDocket: Beanballs & Bleachers
Is a state law that shields ballpark owners from most foul-ball suits unconstitutional special legislation, so that the fan's negligence claim can proceed?
The facts
A fan was hit by a foul ball at a historic big-league ballpark in Chicago. Years earlier, the club had removed protective netting behind home plate while building skyboxes. The fan sued, claiming the club failed to protect patrons and failed to warn of the increased risk. A state statute limits ballpark owners' liability for spectator injuries from balls. The fan argued that statute unfairly singled out baseball for special protection.
You have the facts the court had. Guilty or not guilty? Call it in the game with your friends, then see what the court actually decided. Wrong call, you drink.
Citation: Jasper v. Chicago National League Ball Club, Inc., 309 Ill. App. 3d 124 (1st Dist. 1999)
Read more at illinoiscourts.gov. The source reveals the outcome.