Delivery truck ran stop sign, struck motorcyclist – $1,350,000 Settlement

Plaintiff was involved in a motorcycle accident with a delivery truck being operated by New Bern Transport Company. The driver failed to stop at a stop sign while attempting a right turn. The driver pulled into the oncoming path of the plaintiff’s motorcycle, resulting in the accident. The driver was cited for failure to stop at a stop sign and failure to yield to oncoming traffic.

The Plaintiff was transported via ambulance to Smyth County Community Hospital for emergency treatment of her injuries. She was then transported by medical helicopter to Johnson City Medical Center for surgery the same day.

Plaintiff suffered multiple fractures to her right tibia and fibula requiring several surgeries and skin grafts. Upon release from the hospital, the plaintiff’s injuries required 24-hour care for approximately eight months. The plaintiff’s injuries resulted in the plaintiff being permanently disabled and subsequently, the plaintiff was forced to resign her position with the Smyth County Public School system.

The case settled before suit was filed.

Type of action: Personal injury – motorcycle accident
Injuries alleged: Multiple fractures of the tibia and fibula, requiring five surgeries with multiple skin grafts
Name of case: Pickle v. Pepsi Company & New Bern Transport Company
Court: Smyth County Circuit Court
Date resolved: Jan. 17, 2014
Verdict or settlement: Settlement
Amount: $1,350,000
Attorneys for plaintiff: Charles A. Stacy, Bluefield; Clinton Kegley, Wytheville
Insurance carrier: ACE American Insurance