Abstract
The distribution of blockbuster punitive damages awards has fat tails similar to the distributions of losses from natural disasters. Extremely large awards occur more often and are more difficult to predict than if blockbuster awards were distributed normally. The size and predictability of awards are important factors in theU.S.SupremeCourt's decisions on punitive damages. This article examines the effect of theCourt's decision inStateFarm v.Campbellon blockbuster punitive damages awards.StateFarmshifts the fat tail of the distribution of blockbuster awards down (or “thins” the tail), which is consistent with a restraining effect on award size.StateFarmreduces the size of blockbuster awards in general, but this reduction is most salient in the upper half of the distribution of awards.StateFarmalso has a negative influence on the probability of exceeding a single‐digit ratio between punitive and compensatory damages. This article also examines the largest awards and considers why defendants may not pay large punitive damages awards.
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