Settlement Amount: $3.2 Million
Injury Type: Partial Paralysis (T12 Spinal Cord Injury)
Background
Michael J., a 34-year-old graphic designer from Dallas, was a rear-seat passenger in an Uber that ran a red light and was struck by a delivery truck. The impact caused the car to spin into a utility pole, leaving Michael trapped for 40 minutes before rescue.
Medical Devastation
- Spinal Trauma: Burst fracture of T12 vertebra resulting in partial paralysis of both legs.
- Surgeries & Recovery: Two spinal fusion surgeries, 9 months of rehab, permanent mobility limitations requiring wheelchair use.
- Life Impact: Unable to return to work, apartment had to be retrofitted for accessibility.
Defense Tactics
- Uber’s insurance argued the truck driver was the “sole cause” despite dashcam evidence.
- Attempted to cap damages under Texas insurance minimums.
- Delayed production of driver’s prior accident history.
Injurease’s Action
- Retrieved dashcam and intersection surveillance showing Uber driver’s fault.
- Subpoenaed Uber’s safety compliance records, proving prior complaints about speeding.
- Partnered with neurologists to establish lifelong care costs exceeding $2.5M.
Legal Triumphs
- Court ordered Uber’s commercial policy (not personal coverage) applied.
- Proved systemic negligence in monitoring high-risk drivers.
- Won punitive damages against Uber for reckless disregard of passenger safety.
Settlement Details
$3.2M covering:
- $1.4M lifetime medical care and home modifications
- $800K lost future income
- $1M pain/suffering and punitive damages
Michael Today:
“I trusted a rideshare to get me home safe. Injurease made sure they paid for turning my life upside down.”