Claim for damages made by Chamber of Commerce President who has fought “frivolous” lawsuits

The West Virginia Trial Lawyers Association (WTLA) has expressed its displeasure with state Chamber of Commerce President Steve Roberts after filing a personal injury lawsuit related to an injury his daughter sustained when hit in the eye with a paintball by another child. Mr. Roberts is suing for damages related to medical bills, loss of income and travel expenses as well as a claim for non-economic damages.

"For years now, Steve Roberts has led the charge to restrict access to West Virginia's courts," said Jeff Jones, the WVTLA President. "Over and over, he has characterized lawsuits filed by injured workers, people hurt by dangerous products, and people who were being cheated by insurance companies as 'frivolous.' He claims that these victims were trying to hit the 'lawsuit lottery' jackpot."

Mr. Roberts claims the lawsuit has nothing to do with any of the restrictions for which the state Chamber lobbied.