Michael J. – Spinal Cord Injury from Uber Collision

Settlement Amount: $3.2 Million Injury Type: Partial Paralysis (T12 Spinal Cord Injury) Background Michael J., a 34-year-old graphic designer from Dallas, was a rear-seat passenger in an Uber that ran a red light and was struck by a delivery truck. The impact caused the car to spin into a utility pole, leaving Michael trapped for 40 minutes before rescue. Medical Devastation

• Spinal Trauma: Burst fracture of T12 vertebra resulting in partial paralysis of both legs.
• Surgeries & Recovery: Two spinal fusion surgeries, 9 months of rehab, permanent mobility limitations requiring wheelchair use.
• Life Impact: Unable to return to work, apartment had to be retrofitted for accessibility.

Defense Tactics

• Uber’s insurance argued the truck driver was the “sole cause” despite dashcam evidence.
• Attempted to cap damages under Texas insurance minimums.
• Delayed production of driver’s prior accident history.

Injurease’s Action

• Retrieved dashcam and intersection surveillance showing Uber driver’s fault.
• Subpoenaed Uber’s safety compliance records, proving prior complaints about speeding.
• Partnered with neurologists to establish lifelong care costs exceeding $2.5M.

Legal Triumphs

• Court ordered Uber’s commercial policy (not personal coverage) applied.
• Proved systemic negligence in monitoring high-risk drivers.
• Won punitive damages against Uber for reckless disregard of passenger safety.

Settlement Details $3.2M covering:

• $1.4M lifetime medical care and home modifications
• $800K lost future income
• $1M pain/suffering and punitive damages

Michael Today: “I trusted a rideshare to get me home safe. Injurease made sure they paid for turning my life upside down.” [fluentform_modal form_id="15" btn_text="Click to Start Case Evaluation"]