Jury Finds Negligence, Awards $1,090,000 in Car Crash

A plaintiff driver filed a lawsuit alleging a defendant driver negligently failed to stop at a stop sign, causing a collision. The plaintiff claimed the incident resulted in a lumbar herniation requiring multiple surgeries, including a percutaneous discectomy, partial laminectomy, and discectomy, as well as right shoulder tears that prompted arthroscopic surgery.

The defendant contended that he stopped at the stop sign before entering the intersection, observing the plaintiff's vehicle approaching at 50 to 60 mph. The defendant asserted he stopped in the intersection for approximately three seconds and was struck by the plaintiff's vehicle, which appeared to be accelerating. The plaintiff disputed this, arguing the defendant suddenly appeared while the plaintiff was traveling at the speed limit and that property damage did not support the defendant's speed claims. Evidence showed the plaintiff was involved in a subsequent motor vehicle accident. The defendant's attempt to bring the other driver into the case as a third-party defendant was dismissed before trial. The plaintiff argued the defendant's account was an attempt to shift blame.

The plaintiff presented medical evidence of permanent injuries, including right shoulder tears and an L4/5 herniation, which prevented a return to a prior occupation as a cook and led to significant changes in the household. While a defense medical expert suggested the plaintiff could perform other jobs, the plaintiff countered that limited work history made alternative employment unlikely and sought substantial future medical costs.

The jury found the defendant 100% negligent for the collision. The plaintiff was awarded $1,090,000, which included $200,000 for past pain and suffering, $540,000 for future pain and suffering over 45 years, and $350,000 for future medical bills over 45 years.