Semi-Tractor Rear-Ends Driver Resulting in $425,000 Settlement

Settlement for Personal Injury.  John E. Brownell & Lola M. Brownell v. Jeffrey M. Haase & 5D Express, Inc.  Circuit Court of Adair County.   

Jay Benson (Kirksville) for Plaintiffs.  Larry Tyrl (Overland Park) for Defendants.  On Friday, February 20, 2009, John was operating his 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix northbound on U.S. Highway 63 in Adair County, Missouri, when a 2005 Freightliner Conventional semi-tractor, being operated by Jeffrey M. Haase and owned by 5D Express, Inc., struck John’s vehicle from the rear.  The impact caused John’s vehicle to strike the rear of a 1996 Ford Ranger directly in front of him, which was being operated by Nancy J. Morrison.  After the collision, John’s vehicle traveled off the east side of the road and struck a road sign before coming to rest.  John sustained a left ankle fracture, cerebral concussion, subarachnoid hemorrhage and traumatic brain injury, resulting in post-traumatic headaches, cognitive impairment and depression.  John continues to suffer left ankle pain, deficiencies in the areas of attention, concentration, word finding and memory and severe headaches.   

Medical Expense:  $92,848.82.  Settlement: $425,000.  November 19, 2010.  Insurance Companies: Empire Fire and Marine Insurance Company; Zurich, N.A.