Massachusetts Pedestrian Is Awarded $16 Million For Losing the Use of His Limbs After 2005 Car Accident in Suffolk County

A jury in Suffolk County, Massachusetts has awarded William Dodge, a Boston resident, over $16 million in a personal injury lawsuit.

Dodge lost the ability to use his legs and arms in 2005 after being struck by an automobile while crossing the street in a crosswalk on Bridge Street close to the Salem commuter rail station. The defendant, Arda Tezel (the driver of the car that hit Dodge) was speeding when he struck the former executive chef. Dodge became a quadriplegic after sustaining a fractured spine in the crash. In addition to medical bills so far costing three quarters of a million dollars, he will need medical assistance for the remainder of his life.

The $16 million dollar plus verdict is one of the largest awards given by a jury to a personal injury plaintiff in Massachusetts this year. Dodge received $13,129,671. Interest already earned pushes the total to over $16 million. The jury announced the verdict in Suffolk Superior Court following an eight-day trial.

Tezel resides in Turkey. An arrest warrant has been issued for the defendant, as he has failed to appear in court. Police have also filed a criminal complaint against him.

The costs that come with recovering from a serious car accident can be astronomical, which is why it is so important to hire a good personal injury lawyer who can help you obtain the largest recovery possible. Your personal injury attorney can negotiate a settlement with the negligent party’s insurance company and, if necessary, file a personal injury lawsuit and demand your financial recovery in court.

Spinal cord injuries can be especially severe and life altering. The costs associated with a spinal cord injury can include not only medical bills and rehabilitation, but also ongoing medical care. The personal injury lawyer that you work with should also be experienced in dealing with spinal cord injury cases.

Man who lost use of limbs awarded $16m, Boston Globe, June 30, 2007
Related Web Resources:

Spinal Cord Injuries, MedlinePlus
Spinal Injury Overview, Justia.com