Case Overview

Attorney John Newby of Tronfeld West & Durrett secured a $1.175 million settlement for a 29-year-old U.S. Army sergeant who suffered serious injuries in a motor vehicle accident in Chesterfield County, Virginia.

The crash occurred when the defendant ran a red light and struck the driver’s side of the plaintiff’s vehicle, causing significant and life-altering injuries.

Serious Injuries and Long-Term Impact

As a result of the collision, the plaintiff sustained multiple severe injuries, including:

• Pelvic fractures with pubic symphysis disruption
• Left hip and acetabular tearing
• Retroperitoneal and mesenteric hematomas
• Lumbar spine pain and persistent soft-tissue trauma

In addition to these physical injuries, the crash exacerbated pre-existing PTSD from a prior combat deployment.

Due to ongoing physical limitations and the worsening of his condition, the plaintiff was ultimately medically discharged from the U.S. Army, cutting short his military career and significantly impacting his future earning capacity and benefits.

Legal Challenges in the Case

This case involved several complex legal and factual challenges, including:

• The defense arguing that the plaintiff’s pre-existing PTSD, not the accident, caused his medical discharge
• Attempts to reduce damages by offsetting projected income with military disability benefits
• Disputes regarding the long-term financial impact of the plaintiff’s injuries

Despite these challenges, Attorney John Newby successfully built a strong case demonstrating the true cause and full extent of the plaintiff’s damages.

From $250,000 Offer to $1.175 Million Settlement

Before litigation, the defendant’s insurance carrier offered just $250,000 to resolve the claim.

Through aggressive advocacy, detailed case development, and strategic negotiation, the case ultimately settled at mediation for $1.175 million, which is more than four times the initial offer.

The case was featured in the Virginia Lawyers Weekly as shown below.