Kopfler and Hermann recently concluded at mediation a claim for a 54 year old female school psychologist. The settlement amount was $1.5 million. The psychologist was returning home from work when a Mike’s Filter and Supply Inc. tank truck sideswiped her vehicle as she exited US Highway 90 in Terrebonne Parish.
Immediately following the crash she had no complaints, but later that day felt discomfort. She saw her family physician the next day, and within weeks, an MRI of her cervical spine was performed. The radiologist interpreted the MRI as showing damage to her spinal cord.
She then treated with neurosurgeon Lindsey Lasseigne MD at Thibodaux Regional Medical Center, who promptly diagnosed her with myelopathy and recommended a cervical fusion. After the cervical fusion, the psychologist continued working and attending physical therapy, but her pain persisted. A series of nerve conduction and EMG testing determined the trauma to her spinal cord remained, requiring her to undergo pain management. Epidural injections were not helpful, leading to the implantation of a spinal cord stimulator.
There was a claim for lost sick leave for days missed for treatment, but the psychologist was able to continue working. A large part of the damages were for general damages and future and past medical expenses. Kopfler and Hermann utilized as expert witnesses the treating physicians, a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist who served as a life care planner and a forensic CPA to assist in the cost of future medical treatment.
If you are involved in a crash with an 18-wheeler, call Kopfler and Hermann to assist you with your claim.
