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This is a list of our firm's case results. We can't guarantee you'll receive the same results, but we can guarantee we'll work tirelessly on your behalf and try to obtain the jury verdict/settlement you deserve.

DISCLAIMER: Please note that every case is different and these verdicts and settlements, while accurate, do not represent what we may obtain for you in your case.

Automobile Accident Causing Coma and Paralysis

Staff: Richard N. Shapiro, Attorney Charles Cunningham, Investigator Jackie Tilton, paralegal Mary Wareing, legal assistant G.C., age 52, was operating her motor vehicle on a four-lane road (two lanes each way) divided by a grassy, open median in Norfolk, Virginia. On November 16, 2000,a motorist crossed through a median opening and struck the rear left of G.C.'s vehicle, sending it into a free spin through the grassy median where G.C.'s vehicle was hit head-on by an 18-wheeler tractor traveling in the oncoming direction. The rescue squad found G.C. unconscious with multiple trauma, and she was air-lifted while still in a coma to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital for emergency surgeries. Her vehicle was smashed and nearly unrecognizable, and at the hospital she remained in a coma for approximately three weeks, had no movement of her left side, and a multiple number of traumatic injuries. Miraculously, G.C. awakened three weeks later from her coma, was able to speak with difficulty, but was left with a brain injury. Eventually after several surgeries, she had restored use of her left leg but no further movement of the left arm. G.C. was referred to neuropsychiatrist Michael Stutts of EVMS who evaluated her with traumatic brain injury and some memory loss. She will likely need significant physical therapy over her lifetime and future surgeries to obtain more usefulness for her left extremity, which has no movement and no feeling. On the date of accident, she was employed full-time as an administrative assistant. She is now totally and permanently disabled and incurred over $200,000 in past medical expenses and untold future expenses. The negligent motorist fled the scene of the accident but later turned himself in and was charged with felony hit and run. His insurer offered his $25,000 policy limits. Hajek & Shapiro retained an accident reconstruction expert and assisted G.C. in being evaluated for neuro-psychiatric deficits caused by brain injuries. Counsel pursued underinsured motorist insurance coverage from the insurer for the vehicle that G.C. was operating and also pursued underinsured motorist coverage from the insurer covering G.C.'s own family automobile.

Awarded: Counsel settled with the motorist's insurer, and then with two additional underinsurance carriers for a total settlement of $600,000 which constituted all available insurance.

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