$56 Million Verdict for Brain-Injured Houston Man Faces Collection Challenges After Defendant’s Insurer Goes Bankrupt

Houston, TX – A Houston jury recently decided in favor of Ezekiel Hernandez, a 22-year-old who suffered catastrophic brain injuries from a road accident during his childhood. Hernandez was awarded a substantial $56 million in damages after being struck by a truck while cycling. The compensation, however, faces significant obstacles due to the financial status of the defendant and their insurer. The truck driver currently incarcerated, complicating the process of compensation. Further complicating matters, the insurance company responsible for covering the driver’s liabilities has sought bankruptcy protection, raising questions about the likelihood of the full … Read more

Court Overturns $8.69 Million Award to Brain-Injured Employee in Landmark Decision

San Francisco – A federal appeals court has overturned an $8.69 million jury award previously granted to a worker who suffered severe brain injuries while on the job. The Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled the award on the basis that the employee was covered under workers’ compensation insurance, which typically precludes additional legal claims against employers for workplace injuries. The case involved Tyrone Keys, a construction worker who alleged his injuries arose from negligence by Clark Construction Group among other defendants. Keys contended that lack of proper safety measures on the construction site … Read more