Yep got that right and it gets worse everyday.
Where does it end ? Anybody can sue anyone else for anything. Who's to say that someone wont sue for a wrecked race car ?
I understand someone with ample income who is facing a civil suit making a payoff to make it go away even if they feel they have done no wrong but I also understand that it sets a bad example. Say you aint rich and someone decides that maybe they'll go for your house or garnish your wages for the rest of your life. Your a fool if you think there arnt lawyers that will take any case and judges who will hear the same. Bottom line was that it was Wards actions that caused his death, why a payoff ?