I think we need to get a handle on the pain and suffering lawsuits. That's where it really seems to get out of control!
You are right. There are some legitimate law suits for these-generally involving gross negligence like driving under the influence but for a TRUE ACCIDENT, there should be limits. I think like most things though, the really outrageous ones are the ones that get attention and that most cases are not really that bad. I know my P & C agent showed me the top 10 payouts in our state and the biggest one was for a little over 5 million-DWI that resulted in someone becoming a quadriplegic so that covered lost income and medical expenses for life--I find that appropriate.
Now, 1,000,000 for a fender bender in a parking lot-no way.