Nuclear verdicts cost the entire U.S. economy

Lawsuit abuse is the second-highest concern among fleet executives in 2025, second only to the economy. When thermonuclear verdicts against carriers are stretching beyond $100 million, they may be getting out of hand. According to new research form the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform (ILR), those lawsuits against carriers are hindering the U.S. economy. If states reduced commercial auto tort costs over 10 years, it could increase annual GDP by $52.3 billion and create 5.7 million additional jobs. John Hitch, editor-in-chief of Fleet Maintenance, shines a light on the study with help from Nick Lucas, executive director for research and data analytics at the ILR. Timestamps:  5:11 - Overview of the commercial auto tort cost study 7:00 - How litigation impacts everyday prices 18:45 - Reducing tort costs have economic benefits 24:00 - Third-party litigation funding and transparency 30:15 - The need for systemic safeguards