Watts v. Turner and Albemarle Home Builders, Inc., case no. 06-CVS-39

Jan 01, 2006

OUTCOME: Jury Verdict

he plaintiff was 63 years old on July 1, 2005. The defendant driver was a 16-year-old employee of a local construction company, had obtained his only license nine days earlier, and was driving a compan ... y truck on a company errand in Elizabeth City, N.C. The defendant driver drove out of a parking lot into oncoming traffic, causing a collision with the plaintiff, who was riding a motorcycle. Plaintiff suffered a shattered left tibia and fibia; a fractured right ankle; a fractured and completely dislocated and disrupted left thumb; a partial tear of his left rotator cuff; a through-and-through laceration to his right cheek; and other injuries. Plaintiff underwent two surgeries and incurred medical bills of $115,000. Plaintiff returned to work after six months and lost wages of $22,000. Plaintiff had impairment ratings of 31 percent to his left (non-dominant) thumb; 5 percent to his left shoulder; 9 percent for his right ankle; and 12 percent for his left leg. Plaintiff had worked as a Coast Guard helicopter mechanic for 40 years and was a very skilled mechanic, artist, craftsman, amateur archeologist, sailor, classical guitarist, and fitness fanatic. As a result of his injuries, the plaintiff is now significantly limited at his job and in his hobbies. Defense stipulated to liability and agency. Read more: http://nclawyersweekly.com/reprints/glover052807/#ixzz2uktHtL7Z