California Truck Accident Lawsuit Results in $12.2M Verdict for Brain Injury

A California motorist has been awarded more than $12 million in a traumatic brain injury lawsuit filed against a trucking company that accused him of exaggerating his injuries. 

Earlier this month, a San Diego Superior Court jury handed down the verdict against YRC, Inc. as a result of a California truck accident that occurred in January 2008, when two wheels broke off of the rear axel of one of the company’s trucks and careened into the plaintiff’s Chevy Metro, causing him to suffer a head injury and spinal injuries.

As a result of the traumatic brain injury suffered in the accident, the Plaintiff alleged that he now suffers from memory loss, has had his personality altered and also has trouble concentrating and paying attention.

The plaintiff has required multiple surgeries since the accident, and claimed that he will still have chronic pain for the rest of his life. However, according to a press release issued by the plaintiff’s lawyers, YRC, Inc. attempted to argue at trial that he was exaggerating his injuries, but to no avail.

The injuries have forced the man out of a 20-plus year position as an airline mechanic and he had just been granted a position with a defense contractor working on military unmanned “drone” aircraft, but is no longer able to take that position due to his injuries.

Following trial, a jury awarded the man more than $235,000 for past medical expenses, and also ordered YRC to pay for future medical care and therapy as well as lost income. The final damages awarded came to about $12.2 million.

Traumatic brain injuries are one of the leading causes of death and permanent disability world wide, with 1.4 to 1.7 million people suffering a the head injuries each year. Such brain damage often result in a victim requiring extensive medical treatment and permanent around-the-clock care. Motorcycle and automobile accidents account for about 20% of all traumatic brain injuries.