Jury Awards $330,546.93 for Injuries in Negligent Driving Collision

A plaintiff filed a lawsuit following a vehicle collision in which the defendant admitted to negligently failing to apply brakes, causing the accident. The plaintiff sought damages for personal injuries, including medical expenses and general damages.

An underinsured motorist carrier was initially named as a defendant but later withdrew, opting to proceed in the name of the negligent driver, consistent with O.C.G.A. § 33-7-11. The defendant admitted responsibility for the collision but disputed the plaintiff's entitlement to damages. The underinsured motorist carrier, acting on the defendant's behalf, asserted defenses including improper service, the carrier not being a real party in interest, and claims for setoffs and contributory negligence.

The case proceeded to trial, concluding on March 21, 2018. A jury returned a verdict in favor of the plaintiff and against the defendant. The court entered judgment for the plaintiff in the amount of $330,546.93. This award initially included $30,546.93 for medical expenses and $300,000 for general damages. A revised judgment on April 21, 2018, adjusted the medical expenses to $30,254 and the general damages to $600,250, while maintaining the total judgment amount at $330,546.93.