After a $54 million verdict was reached against a trucking company involved in a recent semi truck accident lawsuit, the company attempted to have the verdict overturned.

However, an Illinois appellate court affirmed the original $54 million verdict, so Universal Am-Can Ltd. continues to find itself on the hook for this semi-truck accident verdict, which includes $35 million in punitive damages.

Law360 reports that according to the lawsuit, James’ car was run into by a semi truck driven by David J., who had been hired by Universal Am-Can, when a third party was driving the wrong way down the highway in their direction. David was driving with a suspended license, and crashed into James’ car, pushing the vehicle into another semi truck’s fuel tank.

The court found that David had a history of nine traffic-related offenses as well as four counts of felony reckless aggravated assault (for trying to break a vehicle’s headlights after it had been tailgating him).

“The jury was presented with extensive evidence regarding [David’s] history prior to applying at UACL, as well as UACL’s internal safety policies. Despite [David’s] history, UACL nevertheless hired him, even though doing so violated its own company policies,” stated the appellate court.

The accident caused James to suffer serious injuries that have necessitated nine surgeries so far, including spinal fusions, and now has a prosthetic metal knee. He has suffered from significant nerve damage, the lawsuit claims, and now has to take opioid medication for chronic pain, as well as see a counselor for depression and anxiety.

James and Theresa filed their truck accident lawsuit on September 24, 2019 in the Appellate Court of Illinois. The lawsuit was originally filed after the 2011 truck accident, and the court reached a substantial verdict of $54 million against the trucking company. While UACL attempted to have the initial $54 million verdict overturned, the appellate court held with that verdict.

Filing a Semi Truck Accident Lawsuit

If you or someone you love has suffered from an accident caused by a semi truck—some of the most dangerous kinds of vehicle accidents—you may be able to file a lawsuit and pursue compensation.

Filing a lawsuit cannot take away the pain and suffering caused by an accident or injuries, nor can it bring a loved one back to life, but it can at least help to alleviate the financial burden incurred by medical expenses, lost wages, and more. Litigation can also help to ensure that those responsible for the accident are held accountable for negligence.

Truck accident settlement are often substantial, and can amount to awards of hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. They are also more common than one might think. In 2016 alone, more than 4,000 large trucks were reportedly involved in fatal crashes.

Filing a lawsuit can be a daunting prospect, so Top Class Actions has laid the groundwork for you by connecting you with an experienced attorney. Consulting an attorney can help you determine if you have a claim, navigate the complexities of litigation, and maximize your potential compensation.

The Semi Truck Accident Lawsuit is Case No. 1-18-1525, in the First District of the Appellate Court of Illinois.