A Duval County jury recently awarded a 73 year-old retired physician $831,000 for injuries and damages when she tripped and fell in January 2011 in Jacksonville.

She suffered a nasal fracture and a fracture to her TMJ, which required surgery, along with impaired function of her mouth and jaw with difficulty chewing and worsening of preexisting migraine headaches.

She tripped against a handicap ramp she was unable to see because an exterior light was not functioning. Although the fall happened on a City of Jacksonville outside walkway, it was adjacent to a condominium complex. The defendant was the developer of the condo complex and at the time of the fall still owned parts of the property including the parcel where the light was not functioning and a nearby Marina.

Successful Verdict

The insurance carrier offered the victim $30,000 for her injuries. When fair compensation could not be reached through settlement negotiations, the case was taken to court, where a jury found the owner of the lamppost responsible and awarded $831,000 for the impact of the injuries on her way of life – $231,000 in the past and $600,000 for the future.

Our client was a remarkable woman who immigrated to the United States from Bogota, Colombia and became the first female physician to practice in Columbia County, Lake City.  The defense argued that “safety is a top priority” is nothing more than a catch phrase. We are pleased the jury saw right through that and gave that phrase meaning with their verdict.

Fall down accidents in Jacksonville occur every day and can range from minor inconveniences to major injuries. At Terrell • Hogan, we represent the injured as they seek justice. We want to help make sure that if you or your loved ones are involved in an injury accident your rights are protected.