GWC Injury Lawyers attorneys Louis C. Cairo, Louis A. Cairo, Michael D. Fisher and Autumn Leslie have secured a total of $22.875 million in settlements on behalf of seven victims injured in a devastating semi-tractor-trailer collision in Wisconsin.
The firm previously resolved five of the claims for $5.875 million through mediation. Most recently, GWC obtained settlements of $15 million and $2 million for the two remaining victims, bringing the total recovery for the family to nearly $23 million. The parties mediated the case before counsel, Michael Crooks, a partner at Von Briesen & Ropper, S.C. in Madison and Milwaukee, who did a superb job as mediator, finding amicable resolution for all injured parties.
The case arose from a catastrophic rear-end collision involving an 18-wheel tractor-trailer and an SUV in Green County, WI.
The Collision: 18-Wheel Semi-Tractor-Trailer Rear Ends Family SUV
In March 2019, the family and 1 friend was traveling in a seven-passenger SUV early in the morning on their way to a state basketball championship game. While driving in a 50-mph zone, deer entered the roadway. The driver slowed to avoid striking the animals.
Dangerously close behind them, an 18-wheel semi-tractor trailer weighing more than 87,000 pounds failed to reduce speed. According to onboard data, the truck was traveling approximately 60 miles per hour at the time of impact and failed to reduce speed at all. The SUV had slowed to less than 25 miles per hour.
The force of the collision was enormous. The SUV was propelled off the roadway into a snowy embankment, where it rolled multiple times before coming to rest on its side.
All seven occupants suffered significant injuries.
A Child’s Life-Changing Injuries – $15 Million Settlement
The most severely injured victim was a 12-year-old boy seated in the third row. After the vehicle rolled, he was found unconscious and suspended by his seatbelt, with the shoulder strap tightened against his neck. He remained trapped and struggling to breathe until emergency responders arrived and removed the roof of the vehicle to extricate him.
The minor suffered multiple fractures to his ribs and sternum, cervical injury requiring a cervical fusion and a TBI. Although he was eventually able to return to school, he continues to face permanent limitations and must avoid activities that risk further head trauma.
The extent of his long-term impairment was heavily contested. Plaintiffs’ experts outlined significant future care needs and long-term supervision. Defense experts disputed the severity of his deficits and minimized projected damages.
Complicating matters further, the case was pending in one of the most conservative jurisdictions for personal injury verdicts. Past recoveries in the county were significantly lower than the damages supported by the evidence.
Despite these challenges, GWC secured a $15 million settlement for the child. This settlement is the largest settlement in Greene County, WI history.
The Mother’s Injuries – $2 Million Settlement
The child’s mother also sustained serious injuries in the crash. She suffered trauma to her left leg, including scarring related to post-accident cellulitis. Although she has not undergone surgery, her treating physician has recommended a future knee replacement due to osteoarthritis aggravated by the collision.
Her claim was resolved for $2 million.
Strategic Preparation Drove Results
Following depositions of the truck driver and his supervisor, the defense stipulated to liability. Even so, GWC prepared the case for trial.
The firm retained DK Global to develop detailed animations illustrating the mechanics of the crash, the vehicle rollover, and the mechanism of the child’s neck and brain injuries. These exhibits were designed to clearly demonstrate the forces involved and to present complex medical evidence in a compelling and understandable way.
By investing in preparation and demonstrating readiness for trial, GWC positioned the case for a strong resolution despite disputed medical opinions.
Advocating for Victims of Catastrophic Trucking Accidents
Commercial trucking collisions often result in life-altering injuries. These cases demand extensive investigation, expert analysis, and the resources to take on well-funded defense teams.
GWC Injury Lawyers has recovered more than $2.5 billion in verdicts and settlements nationwide. The firm remains committed to holding negligent drivers and trucking companies accountable and pursuing full compensation for injured families.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a serious trucking accident, contact GWC Injury Lawyers for a confidential, no-cost consultation. You may call our office at (312) 999-9999 or click here to chat with a representative at any time.