Nashville, Tennessee — A Wayne County jury awarded $1.7 million to Brent Butler, a law enforcement officer, after he was struck by a car while directing traffic at a crash scene. The verdict pronounced that the defendant was solely responsible for the tragic incident which has left Butler battling a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Butler, a dedicated officer with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, was managing traffic around a single-vehicle accident when he was hit by a distracted driver. The impact was so severe that Butler was thrown into the air and suffered critical head injuries upon landing. His condition has necessitated continual medical treatment and monitoring to manage the persistent effects of the TBI.
Represented by the Rocky McElhaney Law Firm, Butler’s case was rigorously argued before the jury, which deliberated for about 2.5 hours at the end of a three-day trial, reaching their decision late on a Friday evening.
The defense had attempted to deflect some blame onto another driver at the scene, who had allegedly stopped or slowed down abruptly. Nonetheless, the jury’s unanimous determination of 100% liability on the part of the defendant underscores the seriousness of Butler’s ongoing health struggles.
Initially, the defense offered a settlement of $400,000, which was starkly lower than the final jury award, highlighting the jury’s acknowledgment of the profound and enduring impact of Butler’s injuries.
Despite the debilitating injury, Butler has heroically managed to return to a role within law enforcement, albeit with considerable adaptations due to his condition. He undergoes regular neurological evaluations to monitor his health, indicative of the severe and lasting effects of his injury.
This case brings to light the significant risks law enforcement officers face while performing their duties and the essential protections they require. The substantial jury verdict not only provides necessary compensation to Butler and his family but also emphasizes the community’s respect and regard for the hazards faced by law enforcement personnel.
Rocky McElhaney Law Firm, known for championing the rights of injury victims, expressed pride in securing a verdict that affirmed the value of law enforcement officers’ safety and welfare. The firm, with locations across Tennessee including Nashville and Knoxville, continues to advocate for fair treatment and adequate compensation for injury victims.
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