Texas Court Upholds Family’s $116 Million Personal Injury Verdict

Figure 1: Odessa Police Department investigating multiple 18-wheeler crashes along IH-20. Photo credit: www.CBS7.com.

On May 19, 2023, a Texas court upheld a jury’s decision to award $116 million to a family impacted by an 18-wheeler crash.

The family of five was traveling in a pickup on I-20 west of Odessa, Texas, through a winter storm. At the time of the accident, black ice covered the roadway, freezing rain precipitated, and there was low visibility. The National Weather Service issued a Winter Storm Warning and advised motorists to use caution on the roads.

While on the interstate, the family lost control of their vehicle and swerved into opposing traffic, where an 18-wheeler struck them. The collision killed one child, catastrophically injured another, and caused severe injuries to the remaining occupants. The driver of the 18-wheeler vehicle was aware of the poor weather conditions yet was still speeding and had recently received the second-lowest possible score on an evaluation from his employer. The court determined that the truck driver’s actions substantially contributed to the family’s injuries in the accident.

This case can remind drivers to take precautions when facing weather that may impact their road safety. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends lowering your speed, not driving through flooded roads, and planning your route before you begin to travel. It is important to take precautions on the roads and, in the unfortunate instance of an accident, contact someone who will be able to understand your situation and represent your needs.

At Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner, Texas’s longest-standing personal injury firm, we have the skills and experience to give you the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed under similar circumstances, our attorneys are standing by to assist with your claim. Call us today for your free consultation at 713-222-7211 or 1-800-870-9584.