Truck Driver Injured During a Delivery is Awarded $11.2 Million for Facility’s Negligence

On May 20, 2021, plaintiff Eldon Loeser, a seasoned 69-year-old truck driver was tasked with delivering goods to a facility in West Sacramento. The plaintiff claimed that the loading dock at the facility was inappropriate for 53-foot trailers. In order to maneuver his 53-foot trailer into the dock, Loeser had to cross double yellow lines and park against traffic to prepare his trailer before backing into the dock. While opening the trailer door at the back of the trailer, a passing van struck the door which slammed into the plaintiff, severely injuring him. He admitted he should have surveyed his surroundings for oncoming traffic before opening the door but he did not do so. The plaintiff admitted that the driver of the van had insufficient time to avoid hitting the door. The plaintiff sued the owner of the warehouse facility. Defendant was found 70% at fault and plaintiff was found 30% at fault. A verdict of $11,200,000 was made in favor of the plaintiff. Loeser was represented by Bruce Broillet, of Greene Broillet & Wheeler, LLP.