In a landmark decision, a jury awarded $31 million in damages to a woman who sustained life-altering injuries in a rear-end collision caused by a distracted truck driver. The verdict marks a significant victory for personal injury law and serves as a reminder of the dangers of distracted driving.
The case, which took place in Ulster County, stemmed from a collision on the Mid-Hudson Bridge during the evening rush hour. The victim was driving in heavy traffic when the vehicle ahead of her began to slow down. She braked appropriately in response, but was rear-ended by a large box truck. The impact from the collision pushed her car into the vehicle in front of her. According to the police report, the driver of the truck was distracted, using his phone at the time of the crash. The driver made no attempt to brake or slow down, despite the clear traffic in front of him, leading to the catastrophic rear-end collision. As a result of the crash, our client suffered severe back injuries, which ultimately progressed to the point where she required surgery.
“This verdict sends a powerful message about the consequences of distracted driving and the need for accountability,” said Andrew Finkelstein and Kenneth Fromson, attorneys for the victim. “Our client’s life was forever changed by this preventable accident, and the jury’s decision underscores the severity of the damages caused by the defendant’s reckless actions.”
The jury awarded $31 million in total damages, which includes compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages, and the significant physical and emotional toll the injuries have had on the victim’s life.
The plaintiff expressed her gratitude for the verdict and the support of her legal team, saying, “This has been an incredibly challenging journey, and while the money will never change what happened, I hope this verdict serves as a wake-up call to others. No one should have to go through what I’ve been through because of someone else’s carelessness.”
The case highlights the growing issue of distracted driving and the importance of holding drivers accountable for their actions. Finkelstein & Partners hope that this verdict will prompt stricter regulations and more awareness around the dangers of phone use behind the wheel.