Overview
A young single mother suffered a severe brain injury, a fractured spine, and multiple internal organ injuries after the motorcycle she was riding as a passenger collided with a van and camper trailer that turned left in front of it. Although many of her cognitive symptoms improved, she experienced significant behavioural changes after the crash. Her claim was resolved at a pre-trial mediation for more than $950,000.
Key Takeaways
- Settlement: More than $950,000
- Accident type: Motorcycle collision
- Primary injury: Severe brain injury
- Additional injuries: Fractured spine, multiple internal organ injuries
- Resolution method: Settlement at pre-trial mediation
- Notable legal issues: None specified
- Medical treatment: Not specified
- Long-term impact: Lasting behavioural changes, addiction to alcohol and street drugs, repeated run-ins with the law
The Case
Our client, a young single mother, was riding as a passenger on a motorcycle when a van towing a camper trailer pulled out in front of the motorcycle to make a left turn. The collision caused devastating injuries, including a severe brain injury, a fractured spine, and multiple injuries to her internal organs.
Although she experienced significant recovery from many of her cognitive symptoms, the effects of her brain injury continued to alter her life in other ways. Following the collision, her behaviour became bizarre and unpredictable. She also developed an addiction to alcohol and street drugs and had repeated run-ins with the law.
The claim proceeded toward trial before ultimately resolving at a pre-trial mediation. The parties reached a settlement of more than $950,000.
Why It Matters
This case highlights that the long-term effects of a severe brain injury may extend beyond cognitive impairments and can include profound behavioural and personality changes.
It also demonstrates that the consequences of a catastrophic motorcycle collision can continue long after the initial physical recovery, affecting many aspects of an injured person’s life.