Lead Attorney: Emma Boyer

Case Type: Commercial Sideswipe Wreck

Settlement: $1,993,862.63

Location: Chicago, Illinois

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Witherite Law Group attorney Emma Boyer secured a $1,993,862.63 settlement on behalf of a grandmother and her granddaughter who were injured when a commercial truck sideswiped their legally parked vehicle in Chicago.  

What began as a commercial sideswipe collision, quickly evolved into a complex case involving significant injuries, multiples surgeries, extensive medical treatment, and questions about the trucking company’s hiring and safety practices. As the evidence developed, it became clear that the impact of the collision was far more serious and life-changing than the defense tried to argue.

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The Collision

In August 2023, while dropping her granddaughter off at school, our client was sideswiped by a commercial driver.  

The force of the impact caused significant damage to the vehicle and immediately changed the lives of both occupants. During his deposition, the truck driver acknowledged that he struck the parked vehicle and agreed that the vehicle was properly parked at the time of the collision.  

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Building the Case

As the litigation progressed, the legal team conducted a thorough investigation into both the collision and the commercial company.  

Through discovery, the team uncovered evidence regarding the driver’s history, including multiple traffic violations and a previously suspended license. Additional records raised concerns about the company’s hiring practices, safety oversight, and record keeping procedures. The investigation also revealed that the driver received internal warnings related to inattentive driving, including one stemming from this very collision.  

Beyond liability, the team focused on documenting the full impact the crash had on our client’s lives. Medical records, testimony, and expert evidence helped demonstrate how the injuries affected their mobility, daily activities, employment, and future care needs.  

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The Impact on Our Clients

What began as complaints of neck, back, shoulder, and knee pain developed into a lengthy medical journey that would continue for years. Despite treatment, diagnostic testing revealed significant cervical spine injuries that ultimately required multiple neck surgeries, extensive rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.

The collision affected far more than our client's physical health. The injuries limited her mobility, disrupted daily activities, and prevented her from working for extended periods during her recovery. By the time of her case resolution, her medical expenses exceeded $1.5 Million, with additional evidence supporting future medical needs and lost income related to the wreck.  

Her granddaughter, who was in high school at the time of the collision, also suffered injuries that required ongoing treatment and physical therapy. The injuries affected her ability to participate in school activities, extracurricular activities, and many of the experiences typically associated with a senior year of high school. Even after graduating and beginning college, she continued to experience symptoms related to the collision.  

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Mediation and Resolution

As the case moved toward trial, the evidence continued to demonstrate the significant impact the collision had on both clients.

The litigation team developed a comprehensive case supported by medical records, expert testimony, life care planning, wage-loss evidence, and deposition testimony. Together, the evidence documented the extent of the injuries, the treatment that followed, and the lasting effects the collision had on our client’s daily lives.

What began as a commercial sideswipe collision ultimately resulted in years of medical treatment, multiple surgeries, ongoing rehabilitation, time away from work, and continued physical limitations.

The case ultimately resolved for $1,993,862.63, providing compensation for both clients and bringing the matter to a resolution without the need for trial.

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A Commitment to Our Clients

Commercial vehicle cases often involve more than simply determining who caused a collision. They frequently require extensive investigation, detailed medical evidence, and a thorough understanding of the long-term effects an injury can have on a person's life.

At Witherite Law Group, we are committed to uncovering the facts, documenting the full impact of our clients' injuries, and fighting for the compensation they deserve. This settlement reflects the value of preparation, persistence, and a client-focused approach to complex commercial vehicle litigation.