Vioxx statute of limitations
In many states, the statute of limitations will bar the filing of additional Vioxx lawsuits since it has now been two years since the pain killer was withdrawn from the market. The Wall Street Journal reported that over the past few weeks, the number of lawsuits currently pending against Merck has jumped by 55%. However, claims for all individuals injured may not be barred by the Vioxx statute of limitations, since time may still be available in some states to pursue a lawsuit for injuries sustained.
It has been estimated that 22,000 Vioxx lawsuits are currently pending. Over 14,000 of those lawsuits are filed in New Jersey state court. New Jersey is the home state for Merck, the manufacturer of Vioxx, and the state has a two year statute of limitations.
Although many states have a two year statute of limitations, time may still be available for individuals injured as a result of Vioxx, depending on the circumstances of their case.
Just wondering……I have a freind who has a case. She wants to know if you think there might eventually be a global settelment, as realistically, no one will ever be around to get any money by the time each case goes to trial.
Mary, At this time Merck is continuing to take the stance that they are going to litigate every case. They have refused to enter any discussions of settlement, but most believe that once a certain number of trials have been completed, they will have to start talking settlement. If one case goes to trial every day (including weekends and holidays), it would take 60 to 70 years to litigate every case. Realistically, the company can not continue to litigate every claim, especially when each loss so far has resulted in a multi-million dollar verdict.
what happens to those of us outside the USA who used vioxx and experienced cardio or stroke problems? do we have recourse to sue in america or our own country?