Spinal Cord Injury Settlements: Real Case Outcomes & Data

One driver cut across the highway, hitting another vehicle and causing it to roll over. The injured passenger alleged that the vehicle, windshield, and seatbelt were defectively designed. The defendants denied liability and disputed the extent of the injuries. The jury found the defendant driver and other parties liable, but not the seatbelt manufacturer.

One driver was in a pickup truck when another vehicle failed to stop at a stop sign and hit the rear side of the pickup. The pickup lost control, rolled over, and landed on its roof. The driver suffered severe spinal injuries resulting in paralysis. The driver and their spouse sued the vehicle manufacturer, alleging the truck's roof, restraint system, and warnings were defectively designed. They claimed the roof did not provide adequate protection in the rollover and the seat belt allowed too much movement. The lawsuit also argued the manufacturer did not test the vehicle for roof strength standards in rollovers. The jury found the other driver 10% at fault and awarded damages.

Officers responded to a domestic call at a home. The homeowner had previously intervened in an alleged abuse situation. Officers arrived without a warrant and demanded the homeowner come outside. While being searched, the homeowner was thrown to the ground, sustaining injuries. The homeowner sued the police department for violating his rights and using excessive force. The case was settled.