July 26, 2024 (Los Angeles, CA) – Hawkins Parnell & Young achieved a favorable verdict for a large distributor of food products after a high-risk 15-day trial in the Superior Court of California for Los Angeles County. Jerry Popovich and Nicole Ortiz of Hawkins Parnell's Orange County office tried the case.

The plaintiff sought nearly $11 million in damages from catastrophic injuries after an accident involving the defendant's 18-wheeler. The extensive injuries alleged included neck, upper back, and lumbar spine injuries, with the most severe being a three-level fusion surgery performed two years post-accident, with ongoing treatment expected over the plaintiff's lifetime.

The Hawkins Parnell trial team argued that the plaintiff's lower back issues and surgery were unrelated to the accident. While conceding that the accident caused limited cervical and thoracic sprains and strains, the defense denied responsibility for the disc problems requiring future surgery.

Despite admitting 100% liability for the accident, the defense focused on disputing the amount of damages claimed. The jury was tasked solely with determining the appropriate compensation amounts.

The jury returned a verdict awarding only $337,000. Since the amount is less than the settlement offers made prior to trial, Hawkins Parnell's client will be able to recover substantial costs and expert fees, further reducing the plaintiff's recovery.

About Hawkins Parnell & Young

Hawkins Parnell & Young is a national defense litigation firm that has represented many of the largest and most well-known companies in high-risk litigation and business disputes. The 250-strong litigation team works with clients to develop winning defense strategies and, if necessary, try cases to verdict in all 50 states.