It has taken three years, but a California woman can now breathe a sigh of relief because a jury has awarded her $3.1 million. The then 56-year-old was injured in a car crash on May 10, 2011, and made the choice to file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver of the other vehicle.
Anyone injured as a result of someone else’s negligence or deliberate action is entitled to seek compensation from that person or business. It’s important that a thorough investigation of the accident take place. An experienced evaluation of the facts will determine the most effective strategy for dealing with the insurance companies, involved parties and, if it becomes necessary to go to trial, the court system.
In this case, records show the victim was a passenger riding in the front seat of a car hit from behind by the defendant. Testimony revealed the plaintiff suffered neck injuries that resulted in a ruptured disc affecting her spinal cord. She attempted conservative treatment for six months, but ultimately required fusion surgery.
Often these types of accident cases conclude with successful settlement negotiations. When a trial is needed to determine at-fault responsibility, effective strategies can include recommendations to the jury. Defense counsel suggested that the jury award this plaintiff a maximum of $345,000. Reportedly, while the jury was deliberating negotiations continued. An agreement was reached stipulating both plaintiff and defendant would accept either the low-end amount of $650,000 or a high-end ceiling of $5.25 million, thus waiving all appeals. After four hours of deliberations, the verdict that fell within the agreement was reached.
Lives change in an instant for car accident victims. Medical bills and new financial obligations can add to the trauma of the physical injuries from which they must recover. Seeking compensation and accountability from those responsible is an important step in safeguarding their futures.
Source: City News Service, “Jury Awards $3 Million to Traffic Crash Victim” Mirna Alfonso, Jul. 23, 2014
