The widow of a man who lost his life in a boating accident has now filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the drivers of the boat. The woman and her late husband had been married for 53 years at the time of his death. The widow is seeking both compensatory and punitive damages in court.

According to the lawsuit, the negligent operation of the boat at high speeds and in rough waters caused the victim to be "violently tossed around inside the boat." The lawsuit contends that the man suffered spinal and head injuries while still on the boat before being thrown overboard. The driver of the boat had previously told reporters that a 12 to 15 foot "rogue wave" struck the boat, and that was the reason the victim was thrown overboard.

A representative for the widow indicated that the lawsuit will seek a substantial amount in punitive damages. He explained that because the defendant in the case is a wealthy owner of a chain of supermarkets, a significant amount of punitive damages would be required in order for it to serve as an effective punishment for is allegedly reckless actions.

There is also a separate inquest into the accident being carried out by the local authorities. It is hoped by the widow that lawsuit, combined with the inquest will resolve a number of questions regarding the boat accident.

Source: The Hartford Courant, "Widow Files Wrongful Death Lawsuit Against Stew Leonard Sr., Grocery Chain Founder," Janice Podsada, March 7, 2012