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Jury Verdict in Auto Accident Trial Upheld by Court of Appeals; Young Woman Awarded $1.1 M in Damages

September 15, 2008 Posted in News Share

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla.- The Fourth District Court of Appeals on Wednesday ruled in favor of Amanda Graham, awarding her more than $1.1 million and affirming the first ruling of the lower court, the 17th Judicial Circuit in and for Broward County. The original verdict of $981,343.93 was awarded after a jury trial in July 2007, which was presided over by the Honorable Ronald J. Rothschild. Taxable costs and interest were added to the total.

“We are pleased that the Court of Appeals upheld the juries verdict,” said Ms. Graham’s attorney, Andrew Weinstein of the Weinstein Law Firm. “Amanda has her entire life ahead of her, and the negligence of the defendants has taken away much of her freedom and ability to lead the life she wanted.”

Amanda suffered severe injuries when the defendant made a reckless U-turn on Sample Road near the intersection of Northwest 108th Street in Margate on September 21, 2004, and struck Amanda’s car. She was taken to the hospital where she required immediate surgery on her right hand and wrist, which is her dominant hand.

Amanda was 24 at the time of the accident and had just started a promising career as a mortgage consultant, although she had not been employed with the company long enough to qualify for health benefits. After the accident, her injuries prevented her from working, and the debt from her medical bills was quickly adding up. She was forced to leave her home in Florida and relocate to Ohio to live with her family, who could help support her.

Since the accident, her injuries have required her to undergo two additional surgeries, although the procedures did not fully eliminate the pain or problems. Amanda continues to suffer constant pain and diminished use of her hand.

“Amanda, now 29, has suffered greatly from this accident. Her earning potential has been dramatically reduced, and she will live with the effects of the accident for years to come. It is an unfortunate circumstance, but the fact that the court upheld the original verdict proves there is justice – it will assist Amanda in living a healthy and productive life,” Mr. Weinstein explained.

The defendants appealed the verdict shortly after the trial last summer. Mr. Weinstein and appellate attorney Julie Littky-Rubin handled the appeal.

Attorney Andrew Weinstein is the founder of the Weinstein Law Firm, a personal injury law firm located in Coral Springs, Florida. The firm represents those injured due to Auto Accidents and handles other type s of Personal Injury cases throughout South Florida communities including Coral Springs, Boca Raton and surrounding areas. More information can be found at www.weinstein-law.com or by calling (954) 757-7500.

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