Witherite Law Group is proud to announce a major legal victory, securing an $18.7 million verdict at Tarrant County’s 96th District Court before Judge Patrick Gallagher. Attorneys Jibraeel Zaidi and Rabia Said led the trial and delivered justice for Bryan Williams, who suffered life-altering injuries after being struck by a drunk driver.

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The Case

Bryan Williams, 22, was walking home when he was struck and run over by a 19-year-old intoxicated driver leaving Whiskey Garden in Fort Worth. The defendant lost control of his pickup truck, hit Bryan, and then crashed into a light pole.

At the scene, the driver attempted to conceal evidence and lied to police about where he had been and how much he had been drinking. A blood test later revealed a BAC of 0.15, nearly twice the legal limit.

Despite overwhelming evidence—including police bodycam footage and eyewitness testimony—the defendant refused to admit responsibility. His legal team attempted to shift blame, arguing that Bryan was negligent for walking on a dimly lit road while wearing AirPods. The jury ultimately assigned 10 percent responsibility to Bryan.

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Trial Strategy and Presentation

Jibraeel Zaidi and Rabia Said built a compelling case using a combination of expert testimony, visual evidence, and detailed documentation of Bryan’s recovery.

  • Medical animations illustrating the severity of Bryan’s injuries
  • On-site visits and family interviews documenting his recovery journey
  • Expert testimony from Nurse Leigh Anne Levy outlining long-term care needs
  • Bodycam footage showing the defendant’s attempt to conceal his involvement

Before trial, State Farm refused to settle, offering only $70,000 on a $50,000 policy, despite Bryan’s catastrophic injuries. The jury, however, saw the full extent of his suffering and awarded:

  • Past and future medical costs: $1.25 million
  • Pain and suffering: $10.5 million
  • Impairment and disfigurement: $4.35 million
  • Mental anguish: $2.5 million
  • Punitive damages: $105,622

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Trial Execution

Jibraeel Zaidi’s voir dire, opening, and closing arguments were instrumental in securing this outcome. His presentation was clear, compelling, and deeply impactful, leaving a lasting impression on the jury. His ability to connect with jurors, present evidence seamlessly, and advocate for Bryan with genuine passion was widely recognized throughout the trial.

Despite defense counsel’s attempts to mislead the jury by cherry-picking records, the truth prevailed. Jurors saw the extent of Bryan’s suffering, his strength in recovering, and the clear responsibility of the defendant.

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The Outcome

This $18.7 million verdict reflects the power of thorough preparation, skilled advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to justice. More than just a legal victory, this case reflects Witherite Law Group’s core values: People First. Unmatched Expertise. Integrity Always.

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A Commitment to Our Clients

This case reflects the values that guide Witherite Law Group’s approach to every client.

  • People First: Jibraeel, Rabia, and their teams went beyond the courtroom, getting to know Bryan’s story, his struggles, and his resilience. Their dedication ensured he was seen as more than just a case; he was a person who deserved justice.
  • Unmatched Expertise: From strategic trial preparation to compelling evidence presentation, our attorneys leveraged every tool at their disposal to fight for the best possible outcome.
  • Integrity Always: Despite defense tactics aimed at shifting blame, our team remained steadfast in presenting the truth, proving the depth of Bryan’s injuries and the defendant’s responsibility.

This result is a reminder that thorough preparation, strong advocacy, and a focus on the facts can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those impacted by serious accidents. Witherite Law Group remains committed to standing up for those who need it most.