Pennsylvania Man Receives $2 Million Jury Award in Car Crash
By Jim Greene
Published on August 27, 2010
A Beaver County, Penn., man injured in a car accident in October 2003 has received a jury award of more than $2 million. The plaintiff sought compensation for pain and suffering and for loss of past and future wages, claiming he could never return to his job as a sander operator.
The plaintiff's wife was awarded $100,000 for loss of consortium, a legal term meaning that the plaintiff's injuries deprived her of the accustomed benefits of their relationship.
Brian and Tina Murphy, residents of Franklin Township, about 40 miles north of Pittsburgh, sued Harvey's Auto Body, located in Baden, and owner Harvey Marenic. According to plaintiffs' attorney Doug Olcott, the Murphys were stopped at an intersection on a rural highway near their home when Marenic, driving a company-owned vehicle, struck their car from behind, propelling it into the path of an approaching tractor-trailer.
Plaintiff Claims Neck, Shoulder, Arm Injuries
Brian Murphy, who was 41 at the time, suffered neck injuries that required surgery for a herniated disk, according to court records. He also claimed the collision left him with shoulder and knee injuries, carpel tunnel syndrome, back pain, and headaches.
Marenic, who was not charged in the accident, was accused in the lawsuit of driving "in a careless and inattentive manner" and "failing to maintain the vehicle" in proper condition. His business was accused of was accused of "failing to properly train, instruct, educate, and supervise" Marenic.
Doctor Testifies Plaintiff Will Never Sand Again, Says Attorney
Olcott said his client's doctor testified that Murphy could never return to his previous work, operating a sander at Armstrong World Industries, a leading flooring, ceiling, and cabinet manufacturer headquartered in Lancaster, Penn.
The jury awarded Murphy $800,000 for loss of past and future wages, in addition to $1.4 million for his pain and suffering.
If you or someone you know is injured in a traffic accident, contact an experienced personal injury attorney. You deserve compensation for your pain and suffering. You and your family deserve compensation for loss of income and for loss of consortium. Your attorney will fight to see that you get fair compensation.
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