On August 15, 2023, our Coker Law trial team obtained a $11,629,759 verdict in Bradford County, Florida, for a very deserving client – Michael Pelfrey.
Details of the Case
Mr. Pelfrey was rear-ended by a tractor-trailer on July 14, 2018, in Starke, Florida. While the vehicle damage was very minor due to the low speeds at issue, Mr. Pelfrey sustained a herniated disc in his neck and a tear in his shoulder. These injuries ultimately required numerous surgeries. Most of all, these injuries severely affected Mr. Pelfrey’s ability to enjoy time with his wife, sons, mother, and friends. He was forced to give up jet-skiing, fishing, football, and all his favorite hobbies.
With the assistance of extensive medical and engineering evidence, the Bradford County jury was able to see the clear link between the crash and the harm claimed by Mr. Pelfrey. The jury also placed 20% of responsibility on Mr. Pelfrey for failing to wear a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
We are very proud of this jury for their dedication through the seven long days of trial. They were attentive and pleasant and took the task at hand very seriously, taking copious notes throughout the proceedings. We are also very appreciative of Mr. Pelfrey for his trust and confidence in our legal team. The trial team included attorneys Stefano Portigliatti, Michael Humphries, Trevor Hawes, and John Mordecai, paralegals Michele DiJanni and Ari Rivera, and legal assistant Ashley Ekon.
Rear-end Accidents Often Lead to Serious Injuries
Rear-end collisions are surprisingly more dangerous than one might think. When a car is hit from behind, the bodies of the occupants are forcefully jerked back and forth. This sudden violent motion can lead to head, neck, and back injuries. One of the most common rear-end accident injuries is whiplash, caused by the violent back-and-forth movement of the neck.
When a vehicle occupant is wearing their seatbelt, they can also suffer injuries to their shoulders, as well as suffer internal bleeding and/or organ damage. Due to the potential severity of rear-end crash injuries, it is always important to be seen by a doctor immediately. Your physician will work to diagnose all of your injuries, even those that might not be immediately apparent, and effectively treat those injuries, giving you the best chance of a full recovery.
Why You Should Consult with a Jacksonville, FL Personal Injury Lawyer
Under Florida law, an injured victim is afforded the right to compensation from the party or parties responsible for their accident. But unfortunately, many victims try to go about the claims process alone.
Filing a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company isn’t as straightforward as it may seem. Insurance companies attempt to pay out as little as possible in an effort to save money. In some cases, they will even try to dispute fault to avoid any payout at all, especially if you might be considered partially to blame for the crash. That is why it is critical to work with an experienced attorney.
Working with a personal injury lawyer will help you secure the best possible outcome. Your attorney will begin by thoroughly investigating the accident and compiling evidence proving liability. They will also work with a team of experts to show the nature and extent of your injuries and subsequent losses, ensuring you receive full compensation.
A personal injury attorney will also handle all communication and negotiation with the insurance company, and if a fair agreement can’t be reached, they will take the matter to trial and advocate on your behalf in the courtroom. Hiring an attorney ensures your rights are protected, giving you the best chance of securing maximum damages from the responsible party.
Contact Coker Law Today
If you sustained injuries in a rear-end crash or any other type of accident, the elite team of attorneys at Coker Law can help. Since 1976, we have helped injured victims across the state of Florida receive the justice they deserve. We have earned a long-standing reputation for successfully handling even the most complex personal injury cases and obtaining superior results.
Contact our experienced legal team today if you or a loved one was injured. We will not only work tirelessly to get you the result you need, but we will also offer our expert advice and heartfelt guidance throughout the entire process. Contact us online or call (904) 290-1936 today to get started. Your initial consultation is free, and there are absolutely no fees unless we win your case. Don’t hesitate. Call now.
