When an insurance company offered $600,000 to settle a serious motor vehicle crash case, attorney John DeGasperis, founding partner of New York Injury Law, said “Not enough.”
The Case: Bicyclist vs. Fire Truck
John represented a cyclist who was struck by a fire truck making a careless turn in a non-emergency situation. The collision resulted in severe bodily injuries, including traumatic brain trauma—a life-altering condition with long-term consequences.
A traumatic brain injury, or TBI, can occur any time a sudden blow or jolt to the head disrupts the brain’s normal function. While symptoms may appear immediately, they can also surface days or weeks later. Victims often experience headaches, dizziness, memory loss, sensitivity to light or sound, difficulty concentrating, or changes in mood and sleep. What makes TBIs especially challenging is that they aren’t always visible, yet they can profoundly alter a person’s ability to work, maintain relationships, or enjoy daily life. For families, the ripple effect can be overwhelming—financial stress, ongoing medical care, and emotional strain are all too common.
Recovering from a TBI often requires a combination of specialized medical care and long-term rehabilitation. Treatment may include neurological evaluations, imaging scans, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language therapy to help restore lost skills. Many survivors also benefit from counseling or support groups to cope with mood changes and emotional challenges. Because no two brain injuries are the same, recovery can be unpredictable—some people improve within months, while others face lifelong struggles. This uncertainty is why proper compensation is so critical: it provides the resources needed for ongoing care, adaptive equipment, and support systems that allow survivors to regain as much independence as possible.
Despite the negligence, the insurance company refused to offer fair compensation, hoping John and his client would accept their $600,000 settlement.
The Verdict: A Multi-Million Dollar Win
Instead of settling, John and Keith took the case to trial. The jury saw the truth and delivered a powerful verdict:
• $1,000,000 for past pain and suffering (covering the two years between the accident and the trial)
• $2,250,000 for future damages
Totaling a $3,250,000 verdict—more than 5 times the original offer.
Why a Trial Lawyer Matters
This case proves that when you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, hiring a skilled trial lawyer matters. Insurance companies want to settle for less. New York Injury Law fights for more.
What to Do If You Suspect a TBI
If you or someone you love may have suffered a traumatic brain injury, taking the right steps early can make a big difference:
- Seek medical care immediately – Even if symptoms seem minor, get checked by a doctor or neurologist. TBIs aren’t always obvious right away.
- Document symptoms and changes – Keep a journal of headaches, dizziness, memory issues, or mood shifts. This record can be crucial for both medical treatment and legal claims.
- Protect your legal rights – Don’t rush to accept an insurance settlement. Consult an experienced injury lawyer who understands the long-term impact of TBIs and can fight for the resources you may need for recovery.
Watch this explainer video to learn more:
