Rebenack Obtains $750,000 Settlement for Truck Crash Litigation

RAM Law Partner Ed Rebenack settles truck crash litigation in Somerset County for $750,000. The RAM Law client was struck from behind by a car-carrying truck on Route 22 in Bridgewater. As a result of the crash, the client suffered a concussion, neck injuries and a prolonged absence from work. Investigation revealed that the trucking company fired the truck driver a month before the crash due to a poor driving record. The driver was involved in 8 crashes within a 19 month period prior to the crash with the RAM Law client.

While in the process of disputing the truck driver’s unemployment claim, the trucking company nevertheless hired the driver back for 3 days because they were short-staffed. It was during this 3-day period that the driver crashed into the back of the RAM Law client’s vehicle. Based upon the reckless hiring practices by the trucking company, the court allowed a punitive damages claim to proceed. Such a claim is intended to financially punish the trucking company for the reckless conduct. The insurance carrier for the company agreed to settle the litigation for $750,000 to avoid trial.