JACKSONVILLE, FL—Farah & Farah attorneys Aaron Metcalf and Devan Hill recently secured a $2,147,691.29 verdict against the U.S. government after a federal bench trial following a severe motor vehicle collision.
The case arose when a U.S. Postal Service truck made an improper left turn directly into the path of an oncoming motorcyclist, violating the motorcyclist’s right-of-way and causing a violent collision. The client was transported to the emergency room, sustaining a concussion/mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) alongside neck and back injuries requiring ongoing medical care.
Litigating against the federal government presented unique procedural and evidentiary hurdles. The defense focused heavily on the plaintiff’s pre-existing history of intermittent back pain and headaches in an effort to minimize causation. Although the defense never formally admitted liability, it offered no opposing liability evidence at trial.
To overcome the pre-existing condition defense, Metcalf and Hill relied on thorough pre-trial witness preparation and targeted cross-examination. They worked extensively with the client, who was initially reluctant to speak publicly about his experience, to help him clearly communicate the collision’s impact on his day-to-day life and future health. During trial, sharp cross-examination successfully undermined the credibility and conclusions of the government’s expert witnesses.
The $2.14 million award ensures lifetime coverage for the client’s necessary medical treatment and ongoing care management.
