Our client was a restrained front-seat passenger in a Ford F-350 pick-up truck traveling through an intersection when another driver ran a stop sign, causing a high-speed collision. Both vehicles were traveling at approximately 40 mph, and the impact occurred directly on the passenger side where our client was seated. The at-fault driver admitted at the scene that he had been distracted while talking to passengers. Both vehicles were declared total losses.
At the time of the accident, our client was on duty working for the Public Works Department of his city. Due to the severity of the crash, he was transported by ambulance to Whidbey General Hospital. He reported pain in his chest, abdomen, neck, and back. Initial CT scans revealed bilateral L5 spondylolysis, and he was diagnosed with rib and abdominal wall contusions. During the collision, a toolbox from the back of the truck was thrown forward, striking him in the head and causing a laceration to his left ear. He was discharged with pain medication.
Despite treatment, his pain persisted and worsened. He returned to the emergency room multiple times over the following days, reporting ongoing back pain, shortness of breath, and severe pain along his side. It was not until his fourth ER visit that additional CT scans revealed a displaced fracture of his right 12th rib with callus formation, explaining the ongoing irritation and pain.
Follow-up care with his primary physician confirmed cervical and lumbar strain, as well as severe tenderness along the rib area. Nearly every breath caused pain, and simple actions such as sneezing were extremely painful. He was taken off work and later referred to physical therapy, which included electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and manual therapy. During this time, his ear laceration became infected and required antibiotic treatment.
Our client endured approximately three months of painful and difficult recovery. His pre-existing spinal conditions, including degenerative disc and facet disease, were aggravated by the collision, making his recovery more complex and prolonged. As a Public Works employee performing physically demanding labor, he was unable to work and was required to use sick leave and vacation time.
The accident significantly impacted his personal life as well. He was unable to participate in holiday activities with his family due to pain and limited mobility. His favorite hobby, playing drums in a band, was completely put on hold, and he continues to experience difficulty returning to that activity.
A detailed and well-documented settlement package was presented to the insurance company. After several weeks of negotiations, attorney Chuck Martin secured a high five-figure settlement within six months of the accident.
To learn how MartinLaw PLLC and attorney Chuck Martin can assist with your car or truck accident case, please contact the firm for a free evaluation.