The car crash that left Hildie Mahoney with life-long injuries was resolved by jury verdict concluding a four-day trial in January 2013. Ms. Mahoney was represented by Howard C. Coker, Daniel A. Iracki and co-counsel Tracy Considine.
The final verdict was $1.15 million with a final settlement of $1.4 million after an award of attorney’s fees and costs. The highest offer before trial was $75,000. In January 2010, Ms. Mahoney was rear-ended by another vehicle on Interstate-10 near the Luna Street exit in Jacksonville. As she was slowing down to avoid hitting an object in the road, the defendant struck her vehicle in the rear at a speed of 35 miles per hour. Although our client’s exterior property damage was minimal, the force of the collision was so severe that it broke Ms. Mahoney’s seat back.
As a result of the crash, Ms. Mahoney suffers life-long health problems. She sustained three herniated discs in her neck and was recommended for a future 3-level neck fusion surgery. These injuries have dramatically altered her life and taken away her independence, while significantly diminishing her quality of life. Prior to the crash, she was the primary caregiver for her elderly parents. Due to the devastating injuries she suffered, she was no longer able to care for them afterwards.
“Ms. Mahoney spent her life taking care of other people and because of this crash, she had to rely on others to care for her. This verdict will help ensure she gets the best care possible for herself,” Dan said.
A freelance paralegal, the crash left Ms. Mahoney facing mounting and ongoing medical costs. While the defense denied causation and liability throughout trial, the verdict has given her peace of mind.
“She truly had her day in court. There is nothing better than being able to help our clients get the justice they deserve,” Dan said.
