Jury Awards $88,439 in Motor Vehicle Negligence

On February 19, 2019, a plaintiff sustained significant injuries to his back, left knee, and shoulders following an incident with a defendant. The plaintiff filed a complaint on April 25, 2019, alleging the defendant negligently caused a collision by failing to exercise due care, yield the right of way while turning or entering an intersection, obey traffic signs, maintain a proper lookout, and driving too fast or under the influence. A dispute existed over whether the incident involved a bicycle or a pedestrian in collision with an automobile.

The plaintiff initially sought compensatory and punitive damages, along with litigation expenses, but later withdrew the claims for punitive damages and litigation expenses. Specific damages requested included past and future medical expenses, lost wages, mental and physical pain and suffering, emotional distress, and the full value of the vehicle, including repair costs, loss of use, and diminished value. The defendant filed a response to the complaint in May 2019; specific defenses raised were not detailed in the record.

The parties participated in a judicially hosted settlement conference in March 2022, but the case proceeded to trial. Pre-trial orders were issued in January 2023 to establish facts and procedures. On January 18, 2023, a jury returned a verdict in favor of the plaintiff, awarding $88,117.37 in general damages. Additionally, on January 30, 2023, the plaintiff was awarded $321.63 in attorneys' fees and costs, resulting in a total award of $88,439.