$850,000 settlement: Collision after unexpected U-turn injures plaintiff

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Action: Motor vehicle accident

Injuries alleged: Mild traumatic brain injury

Case name: Withheld

Court/case no.: Withheld

Mediator: Karl Folkens

Amount: $850,000

Date: Nov. 21, 2023

Most helpful expert: Dr. Marshall White

Attorneys: Gedney M. Howe IV and Michael Monastra of Law Offices of Gedney M Howe III, Charleston, and John Dodds III of Cisa Dodds LLP, Charleston (for the plaintiff)

Plaintiff was traveling on Folly Road in Charleston when a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction suddenly and without warning performed a U-turn at Folly Road and Old Folly Road. Plaintiff was unable to stop in time, causing her to strike the vehicle. Due to the extent of plaintiff’s injuries, she did not remember much of the accident.

The turning driver’s auto insurance carrier quickly tendered its coverage.

It was then discovered that the at-fault had an umbrella policy. A lawsuit was filed and depositions were taken before the case was mediated. There was significant debate over the nature of an expensive hip replacement. Finally, the umbrella carrier agreed to pay $600,000 of its $1 million in coverage. •