Attorney Mark Bringardner helped secure a $3.5 million settlement for a man who suffered severe brain damage after being hit by an SUV while on vacation in Charleston. This significant settlement reflects our firm’s commitment to advocating for victims of negligence and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
The Incident and Injuries
In 2017, a man and his wife, visiting Charleston from the Midwest, were walking down a sidewalk when they encountered an SUV driver about to turn right out of a parking lot. The driver initially backed up to allow the couple to pass but then suddenly drove forward, hitting the man and knocking him to the ground. The impact caused the man to suffer a skull fracture and damage to his ear canal.
The man was rushed to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with multiple cerebral hemorrhages and a midline shift of the brain due to intracranial pressure. Although these brain injuries did not require surgery, his leg injuries did. After spending a week in the hospital, the man returned home for further treatment with neurological and orthopedic specialists.
The Legal Battle and Settlement
Mark Bringardner, together with a team of lawyers, represented the injured man and his wife. After thorough negotiations, the lawsuit against the at-fault driver was confidentially settled for $3.5 million.
Long-Term Impact of the Injuries
Despite an initial diagnosis of a “remarkable recovery,” an MRI in April 2018 revealed bilateral encephalomalacia, indicating dead brain tissue and permanent brain damage. The man, who had a documented pre-injury IQ of over 145 and was considered a near-prodigy and genius in his field, experienced a significant decline in his cognitive abilities, affecting his work, marriage, relationships, and mental health.
Challenges and Defense Claims
The defense attorneys disputed the extent of the man’s injuries and argued that he was comparatively negligent for not making eye contact or confirming that the driver saw him before walking into the vehicle’s path. However, our legal team successfully demonstrated why the driver of the SUV was at-fault and the severity and impact of the injuries, which resulted in a substantial settlement for our clients.
Loss of Consortium Claim
The injured man’s wife brought a loss of consortium claim. A loss of consortium claim is brought by the spouse of a loved one who is seriously injured to compensate the spouse for the change in the martial relationship that results from injuries. This strategic decision allowed the couple to present a stronger case, potentially giving them two opportunities to argue their case during trial proceedings. The couple had been married for less than two years at the time of the incident, and the wife effectively lost a husband and gained a brain injury patient due to the accident.
Confidentiality Agreement
Due to a confidential settlement agreement, additional details about the case, including the identities of the defendant and the defense attorneys, remain undisclosed.
Why Choose Bringardner Injury Law Firm?
At Bringardner Injury Law Firm, we focus on handling complex personal injury, including those involving traumatic brain injuries. Our team, led by Mark Bringardner, is dedicated to providing compassionate and aggressive representation to ensure our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve. We understand the profound impact such injuries can have on victims and their families, and we are here to support you throughout the legal process.
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury due to an auto accident, contact Bringardner Injury Law Firm today at 843-380-5299 or contact us online for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you need to recover and move forward with your life.