Cybex International said that a divsion of the New York Supreme Court reduced a product liability award against it by approximately 31 percent to approximately $44 million, but that the reward remains to high.


The ruling by the Appellate Division, Fourth Judicial Department, of the Supreme Court of the State of New York can in the company’s appeal of the previously announced jury verdict in the product liability litigation, Barnhard v. Cybex International, Inc.

 

Under New York law, Cybex is responsible for payment of the judgment but will seek reimbursement from the co-defendant of approximately 21% of its payments on the judgment, which results in a net liability to Cybex, after insurance, of approximately $33 million plus interest at the annual rate of 9% which accrues on the modified judgment from the judgment date. The judgment was otherwise affirmed.

Cybex Chairman and CEO John Aglialoro stated, “Cybex strongly believes that it was not at fault in the accident that is the basis of the plaintiff’s claims and that this case was wrongly decided as to liability. In addition, while the company appreciates the decision of the Court to reduce the judgment, we believe that the amount of damages represented by the reduced judgment continues to be overstated. Accordingly, we will petition the Court of Appeals of the State of New York to consider our appeal of the judgment.”


Cybex expects within 60 days a decision by the Court of Appeals whether to accept for consideration the Company’s appeal and, if the appeal is accepted, it expects a ruling on the merits during 2012. The Company is also exploring both ways to protect itself in the event the Court of Appeals does not accept the appeal for consideration and available alternatives to fund an ultimate resolution of the matter.


Cybex is analyzing the impact that the appellate decision, which will result in a reduction in the Barnhard net litigation reserve, will have on fourth quarter and full year results.