Woman fractured ankles during physical therapy — $500,000 settlement

Type of action: Medical malpractice

Injuries alleged: Fractured ankles

Name of judge or mediator: Judge Thomas S. Shadrick (Ret.)

Date resolved: 9/8/2022

Special damages: $100,000

Demand: $850,000

Offer: $500,000

Verdict or settlement: Settlement

Bennett

Amount: $500,000

Attorney for plaintiff (and city): Carlton F. Bennett, Virginia Beach

Description of case: Doe had suffered a spinal cord injury and was wheelchair bound. She was admitted to Woe’s healthcare facility for physical therapy and during a physical therapy session the therapist attempted to have her stand in parallel bars and Doe slid forward from her wheelchair and onto the floor, fracturing both ankles. The physical therapist should have had assistance in this activity to prevent Doe from falling.

Plaintiff’s counsel Carlton F. Bennett provided case information.