Young man injured in auto accident while at work — $120,000 verdict

Type of action: Personal injury

Injuries alleged: Concussion, neck strain

Name of case: Hudson v. Gabriola

Court: Richmond Circuit Court

Case no.: CL21002036-02

Tried before: Jury

Name of judge or mediator: Judge D. Eugene Cheek Sr.

Date resolved: 5/18/2022

Special damages: Medical bills totaling $29,313.22; lost wages totaling $4,072.42

Demand: $100,000

Offer: $19,931.67

Verdict or settlement: Verdict

Amount: $120,000

Attorney for plaintiff (and city): Gray B. Broughton, Richmond

Broughton

Description of case: On March 13, 2020, the plaintiff, a 24-year-old male, was making a left turn at an intersection when the defendant, a 19-year-old male, ran a red light and struck the front side of the compact car that the plaintiff was driving in the course of his employment for an auto parts store. The defendant was ticketed and admitted liability shortly before trial.

The plaintiff didn’t complain of loss of consciousness and refused treatment at the scene but was taken to the ER by his mother the same day complaining of a headache and neck pain. The plaintiff was diagnosed with a concussion and had concussion symptoms, including intermittent headaches, irritability, and sensitivity to light and sound for over a week following the collision. The plaintiff did not receive medical treatment for approximately three months due to the ongoing pandemic.

The plaintiff was later seen twice by a neurologist, attended three counseling sessions for driving-related anxiety, and went to physical therapy for neck stiffness.

The plaintiff, an avid weightlifter and aspiring music producer, was able to resume weight training and music production a few months after the collision. The plaintiff’s medical bills totaled $29,313.22 and he suffered lost wages in the amount of $4,072.42.

State Farm was the carrier. Plaintiff offered to settle for the $100,000 policy limits. State Farm’s first and final offer was $19,931.67. The jury returned a $120,000 verdict for the plaintiff at the conclusion of a one-day jury trial.

Plaintiff’s attorney Gray B. Broughton provided case information.