Case study guide
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Victim of Rear-End Car Crash Wins $650,000 Verdict
Case Overview
The Licatesi Law Group obtained a $650,000 verdict for a 55-year-old woman who underwent discectomy after being rear-ended at a red light. The defendant argued the accident was of minimal impact and that the plaintiff had pre-existing conditions due to a previous spinal surgery. The last offer prior to trial was $12,500. Through skilled representation by Attorney Joseph Armao, we secured over 50 times the settlement offer at trial.
Case Facts
- 55-year-old female plaintiff rear-ended while stopped at red light
- Plaintiff had undergone previous spinal surgery
- Defense claimed minimal impact collision
- Defense attempted to blame pre-existing conditions
- Final pre-trial settlement offer was only $12,500
Injuries Sustained
- •Disc herniation requiring surgical intervention
- •Exacerbation of pre-existing spinal condition
- •Chronic neck and back pain
- •Reduced mobility and quality of life
Medical Treatment
- •Discectomy surgery to address herniated disc
- •Post-operative physical therapy
- •Pain management treatment
- •Ongoing medical care
Legal Strategy
- Rejected grossly inadequate $12,500 settlement offer
- Prepared full trial presentation
- Overcame defense arguments about pre-existing conditions
- Demonstrated that accident caused new injuries and worsened existing condition
- Presented compelling evidence to jury
- Successfully refuted minimal impact defense
Outcome
The jury awarded our client $650,000—more than 52 times the defendant's final offer. This verdict represents the jury's recognition of the true extent of our client's injuries and the impact on her life, despite the defense's attempt to minimize her damages.
Key Insight
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by claiming minimal impact or blaming pre-existing conditions. Experienced trial attorneys can overcome these tactics by presenting clear medical evidence showing causation and the full extent of new injuries.
Have You Been Injured?
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Important Notice: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is unique and results depend on the specific facts and circumstances of each individual case.