Suraj Afolayan-Bas, Individually and As Next Friend of R.A., a Minor v. Hellas Construction, Inc. and John Hernandez
May 01, 2020OUTCOME: $5,250,000 settlement
Plaintiff Suraj Afolayan-Bas was driving on the service road of South Sam Houston Parkway West in Houston, Texas with his minor son in the rear, driver's side passenger seat of the vehicle. Defendant J ... ohn Hernandez was operating a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van, owned by Hellas Construction, Inc., while in the course and scope of his employment with Hellas Constructions. Hernandez ran a red light and violently collided with the driver’s side of Mr. Afolayan-Bas's vehicle. According to Hellas Construction’s company policies, Hernandez, who had a recent history of several alcohol- and drug-related offenses while driving, speeding convictions, a driver’s license suspension, and prior automobile accidents, was not qualified to drive a company vehicle. Despite this policy, Hellas Construction allowed Hernandez to drive company vehicles on several occasions, including the date of the incident. At the time of the incident, R.A. was four years old. R.A. sustained a traumatic brain injury along with several contusions and lacerations on his face and body. R.A. has permanent neurocognitive impairments which will require lifelong treatment. R.A.’s neurocognitive impairments will also affect his future earning capacity. Suraj Afolayan-Bas sustained injuries to his knee, neck, and back in the collision. A settlement in the amount of $5,300,000 was reached on behalf of Mr. Afolayan-Bas and R.A.
