Veteran Receives $10.6M Verdict for Motorcycle Crash

Veteran Receives $10.6M Verdict for Motorcycle Crash

Introduction

A Volusia County motorcycle rider who was seriously injured in a Daytona Beach Shores crash has been awarded a $10.6 million verdict by a jury. 

This came after the rider rejected a settlement offer of just $90,000. The jury determined that the woman responsible for the accident was negligent.

Details of the Crash

On March 31, 2022, the rider was traveling north on State Road A1A on his Harley-Davidson. Meanwhile, a woman from Michigan was driving in the opposite direction. The woman turned left into the rider’s path without yielding, causing the crash. The rider attempted to avoid the collision but was unable to do so, resulting in serious injuries.

Injuries and Ongoing Medical Needs

The rider sustained extensive injuries, including a herniated disc in his neck, a torn rotator cuff, and aggravation of an existing back injury. He also suffered facial scarring. After undergoing surgery on his lower back, he still requires surgeries for his neck and shoulder.

Jury’s Verdict and Award

The jury found that the woman was negligent and awarded the rider a total of $10.6 million. This includes $206,000 for past medical expenses and $560,000 for future medical expenses. For pain and suffering, the jury awarded $1.5 million for past damages and $8.5 million for future damages, factoring in disability, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Driver’s Legal Consequences

The woman responsible for the crash was cited for failing to yield during her left turn. In a separate legal matter, she pleaded no contest to the charge and was fined $155 and required to attend traffic school.