A few weeks ago, we wrote about a car accident that happened in Worcester County. A speeding car hit a tractor, causing minor injuries to everyone involved. Just last week, a jury ruled on a similar accident that occurred in Wicomico County -- and the verdict shows why it can be a good idea to consider a personal injury lawsuit after being seriously injured in a car accident.
Just before the accident, a couple was driving down a road near Sharptown. Visibility was decreasing as the sun set. Suddenly, the couple crashed into something: a piece of farm equipment that extended across a second lane of road.
Glare from the setting sun prevented the couple from seeing that the equipment that was being towed protruded into a second lane. There was no lead car or wide load sign.
Both individuals suffered severe injures in the car accident. The wife broke her hip, and the husband permanently lost an eye. Facing expensive medical bills, the couple filed a lawsuit.
Although the defendants claimed they were allowed to tow the large piece of equipment because of size exemptions for farm machinery, they attempted to settle the lawsuit for $200,000. The couple rejected that offer, and the case went to trial.
Last week, a jury sided with the injured couple. They were awarded more than $1 million for their pain and suffering, physical impairment, past and future medical expenses, loss of companionship, disfigurement, and inconvenience.
No one should be forced into debt because of an accident that someone else caused. Fortunately, as this case shows, it is possible to seek compensation for medical expenses and other damages from a negligent driver.
Source: The Dispatch, "Couple Awarded $1M In Verdict," Nov. 28, 2013
