Biker injured by John Doe in Interstate 264 accident – $150,000 Verdict

The plaintiff was leading a group of motorcyclists on Interstate 264 when a John Doe vehicle merged onto the highway in front of him a few cars lengths away and braked suddenly. In attempting to stop his motorcycle, plaintiff experienced brake lock up and the motorcycle left the roadway and hit a guardrail. The John Doe vehicle left the scene.

The accident was investigated by a Virginia state trooper. However, there were no witnesses to the events, as it happened quickly and the riders behind plaintiff either did not see what occurred or left the scene without identifying themselves. The jury was instructed on contributory negligence and the defense maintained that plaintiff lost control and did not keep a proper lookout.

Type of action: Motorcycle accident
Type of action: Avulsion fracture of right medial talus and road abrasions with scarring to both arms
Name of case: Gary Thompson v. John Doe
Court: Portsmouth Circuit Court
Case no.: SL09-394
Tried before: Jury
Name of judge: Dean W. Sword
Special damages: $20,004
Verdict or Settlement: Verdict
Amount: $150,000
Date: March 2010
Demand: $50,000
Highest offer: None
Insurance carrier: GEICO
Plaintiff’s attorney: Michael F. Imprevento, Norfolk