Wyoming
How Dillon v. Legg applies in Wyoming: state-specific rules, key cases, and bar exam notes for Torts.
Wyoming law recognizes the principles of emotional distress as articulated in Dillon v. Legg, allowing bystanders to claim damages for negligent infliction of emotional distress if they witness harm to a close family member. The state also requires a close relationship and proximate cause connecting the emotional distress to the observed negligence.
In Wyoming, a bystander can recover for negligent infliction of emotional distress if they are closely related to the victim, present at the scene, and have a reasonable fear for the victim’s safety.
The Wyoming Supreme Court recognized a cause of action for bystanders experiencing emotional distress stemming from witnessing a loved one’s injury.
In this case, the court upheld the criteria from Dillon v. Legg, reinforcing the necessity of a close relationship for bystander claims.
The court discussed the standards for establishing emotional distress and its allowance in the context of witnessing traumatic events.
Wyoming's approach aligns with federal tort law by allowing claims for negligent infliction of emotional distress under certain conditions. However, Wyoming imposes more stringent criteria regarding the relationship and presence of the bystander compared to some jurisdictions that may offer broader allowances for recovery.
Understanding the application of Dillon v. Legg principles is crucial for the Torts section of the Wyoming bar exam, especially regarding bystander emotional distress claims.