New Trial Allowed for Man Paralyzed in Accident

A Rhode Island judge has granted a new trial to a man who unsuccessfully sued the state for $40 million after he was paralyzed in a dive into a pond at a state park in Woonsocket.

The Woonsocket Call reports the judge threw out a 2011 jury verdict absolving the state of liability in Brett Roy’s injuries.

Roy was paralyzed in 2008 after diving into a pond at World War II Veterans Memorial State Park.

The judge said there was ample evidence at trial about the dangers at the swimming hole. She says the state knew about them and Department of Environmental Management employees let people swim without lifeguards present.

Attorney General Peter Kilmartin’s office tells The Associated Press Monday it is reviewing the decision and deciding whether to appeal.