I think the judgment was reversed on appeal, but those initial, multi-million dollar settlements
Correct, like the initial win of $17 mln against Cirrus in the Minnesota crash, it was later reversed. But it is all an example how in some cases jury system completely fails when (some) technical/aviation expertise is required.
That "scatter gun" approach is the way to go if you don't have to worry about being hit for costs if you lose.
All very true, however sometimes the suing 'loser' is faced with surprising financial liability - Cory Lidle's widow was slapped with $80,000 judgement to repay Cirrus' court fees after losing the battle against them for $50 mln. Her lawyer called it a "double injustice". Of course the $80 K is a relative chump change compared to what was in stake in this trial and what lawyers' fees were.