How Much Did Tracy Morgan Make From Walmart?

Tracy Morgan received a settlement from Walmart reportedly totaling around $90 million following the tragic 2014 accident that severely injured him and killed his friend, comedian James McNair. While the exact figure remains confidential due to a non-disclosure agreement, various sources, including reputable news outlets, have cited this approximate amount.

The Devastating Accident and Subsequent Lawsuit

On June 7, 2014, a Walmart tractor-trailer driven by Kevin Roper crashed into the limousine van carrying Tracy Morgan, James McNair, and several other comedians on the New Jersey Turnpike. Roper, who had been awake for over 24 hours, was later found to be fatigued and in violation of federal safety regulations. The accident resulted in the death of McNair and serious injuries to Morgan, including a traumatic brain injury, broken ribs, a broken leg, and a broken nose.

Following the accident, Morgan filed a lawsuit against Walmart alleging negligence. The lawsuit claimed that Walmart was responsible for Roper’s fatigue and that the company should have known he was unfit to drive. The lawsuit also sought damages for Morgan’s pain and suffering, lost earnings, and medical expenses.

The Settlement Agreement: A Complex Calculation

The settlement amount of approximately $90 million represents a comprehensive package intended to compensate Morgan for the various losses he incurred as a result of the accident. This likely included:

• Medical Expenses: Covering past and future medical treatments, rehabilitation, and therapy needed to address Morgan’s injuries.
• Lost Earnings: Accounting for Morgan’s inability to work and perform, considering his potential income from comedy shows, television appearances, and film roles. This would have been a significant factor, as Morgan was at the peak of his career before the accident.
• Pain and Suffering: Acknowledging the physical and emotional trauma Morgan experienced, including the grief over the loss of his friend James McNair.
• Punitive Damages: Although not explicitly stated, a portion of the settlement may have been allocated as punitive damages to penalize Walmart for its negligence and deter similar incidents in the future.
• Other Damages: This could include compensation for property damage, legal fees, and other associated costs.

More Than Just Money: The Impact on Tracy Morgan

While the financial settlement provides a degree of security, it’s important to acknowledge the profound impact the accident had on Tracy Morgan’s life. He faced a long and arduous recovery process, both physically and emotionally. The death of James McNair was a particularly devastating blow. Morgan has spoken openly about the challenges he faced in returning to work and regaining his confidence.

Although the settlement provided financial compensation, it can’t undo the loss and suffering endured. Morgan’s story highlights the importance of road safety and the consequences of negligence in the transportation industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What exactly was Tracy Morgan’s role in the lawsuit?

Tracy Morgan was the plaintiff in the lawsuit, meaning he was the party who initiated legal action against Walmart, the defendant, alleging negligence and seeking compensation for his injuries and losses.

2. What specific charges were brought against Kevin Roper, the Walmart driver?

Kevin Roper was charged with vehicular homicide and assault by auto. He ultimately pleaded guilty to some charges as part of a plea agreement.

3. Did James McNair’s family also receive a settlement from Walmart?

Yes, James McNair’s family also received a settlement from Walmart. The details of their settlement, like Morgan’s, are confidential but were reportedly significant.

4. Why was Walmart considered liable for the accident?

Walmart was deemed liable because they were Roper’s employer and were responsible for ensuring their drivers complied with safety regulations, including hours-of-service rules designed to prevent driver fatigue. The lawsuit argued that Walmart’s negligence in this area directly contributed to the accident.

5. Was the $90 million settlement figure ever officially confirmed by either party?

No, neither Tracy Morgan nor Walmart has officially confirmed the exact amount of the settlement due to a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) that was likely part of the settlement terms. The $90 million figure is based on reports from credible news sources.

6. How did the accident affect Tracy Morgan’s career?

The accident significantly impacted Tracy Morgan’s career. He suffered severe injuries that required extensive rehabilitation, delaying his return to acting and comedy. While he eventually made a successful comeback, the accident undeniably altered the trajectory of his career.

7. What steps has Walmart taken to improve driver safety since the accident?

Following the accident, Walmart stated that it implemented new safety measures, including enhanced driver training, improved monitoring of driver hours, and increased investment in safety technology. However, the effectiveness of these measures is a subject of ongoing debate and scrutiny.

8. Is it common for settlements in cases like this to be kept confidential?

Yes, it is quite common for settlements, especially those involving high-profile individuals and large corporations, to include non-disclosure agreements. This protects both parties from unwanted publicity and allows them to move forward without further legal battles.

9. What role did insurance play in the settlement?

Walmart likely had insurance coverage that would have contributed to the settlement amount. The insurance company would have been involved in negotiations and would have paid a significant portion of the settlement.

10. Could Tracy Morgan have received even more money if the case had gone to trial?

It’s possible that Tracy Morgan could have received more money if the case had gone to trial, but it’s also possible he could have received less. Trials are inherently unpredictable, and there’s no guarantee of a specific outcome. A settlement provides a guaranteed resolution, avoiding the risks and expenses associated with a trial.

11. Where does Tracy Morgan stand now, almost a decade later?

Tracy Morgan has made a remarkable recovery and continues to work in comedy and acting. He has starred in television shows, films, and comedy specials. He has spoken candidly about the accident and its impact on his life, using his platform to advocate for road safety.

12. Can a similar lawsuit happen if a driver is independent and not tied to a company like Walmart?

Yes, a similar lawsuit can still happen if the driver is independent. In that case, the lawsuit would typically be against the driver directly, and potentially against any company that contracted the driver if they were found to be negligent in their selection or supervision of the driver. The legal principles of negligence and liability would still apply.

In conclusion, while the exact amount remains confidential, the $90 million settlement received by Tracy Morgan from Walmart represents a significant sum intended to compensate for the substantial losses he endured due to the tragic accident. It serves as a reminder of the importance of safety regulations and the devastating consequences of negligence on the road.