$3.8 Million Settlement for Auto Collision Victim Permanently Injured When Commercial Van Hit Her Vehicle

Romanucci & Blandin, LLC  announces the $3.8 million settlement for a female plaintiff who suffered life-changing spinal injuries when her car was rear-ended by a worker driving home in a company vehicle. That worker had a history of DUI, a previously suspended license, moving violations and collisions. The west suburban company that employed the at-fault driver, Brian McCormick, was aware of his dangerous driving history but looked the other way when it hired him and entrusted him with a commercial vehicle containing heavy equipment that weighed nearly 8,000 pounds. The accident occurred June 12, 2017 on I-294 South in the Chicago area. The settlement was mediated by Honorable Judge Joe Casciato (ret.) of ADR Systems on May 3, 2021.

The middle-aged female victim, who was not working at the time, suffered injuries to her shoulder and after nearly three months of treatment made the first complaint of back pain, which eventually led to multiple spine surgeries in the years that followed. Her treatment includes the insertion of a permanent spinal cord stimulator into her back to help manage her chronic pain.

The plaintiff was represented by Romanucci & Blandin Founding Partner Antonio M. Romanucci and Senior Associate Bruno R. Marasso.

“The level of irresponsibility in this case is stunning, with a company fully aware that its driver is a danger to others on the road, yet tossing him the keys to their vehicle.  The woman who was injured by the driver will pay the price for this negligence and suffer back pain for the rest of her life,” said Antonio M. Romanucci.  

“It is shameful that this collision ever occurred. This worker and his employer were both fully aware of the risk he presented to others, and if they had made responsible decisions this never would have happened. We would also like to acknowledge Judge Joe Casciato for a mediation result that helps bring some measure of justice to our client,” added Bruno R. Marasso.

To learn more about legal options involving auto accidents please click here.