Semi Truck Driver that Was Injured After Being Rear-Ended By Another Semi is Awarded $1,347,920

John K Rinehardt, of Rinehardt Injury Attorneys, represented a 58-year-old Spanish speaking Honduran immigrant who lives in Texas.

He was driving his truck on Interstate 71 when he was rear-ended by another semi. He suffered bilateral rotator cuff tears, four herniated discs in his neck, and four herniated discs in his low back. Treatment included surgery on each shoulder, injections, PT, and chiropractic. Three of his doctors testified by way of video deposition, and the only lay witness was the client, who testified with an interpreter. Mr. Rinehardt’s client has lived and worked in the US for the last 20 years, sending money home to support his wife and children.

Defense argued for a zero verdict because Mr. Rinehardt’s client said he was uninjured at the scene, he drove his truck back to Texas, and he sought treatment only after consulting an attorney two weeks later. In addition, defense argued that treatment was sporadic and that the only time Mr. Rinehardt’s client missed work was during recovery from the two surgeries, which were five years apart. Although there was no prior medical treatment, the defense argued that the problems must have been pre-existing/chronic because he did not have acute pain at the scene, he is a former professional soccer player, and truck driving is a physically demanding job. Defense also took issue with the amount of medical expenses that totaled $347,920. A hired defense expert testified that Mr. Rinehardt’s client was not injured in the crash and that the medical expenses were unreasonable.

In the end, the jury award Mr. Rinehardt’s client $1,347,920.00.