Our then 69-year-old client was walking to his bank near his home to withdraw money for a local Veterans’ organization and was crossing the road in the crosswalk on a green light. A driver turned onto that road, not seeing him, and hit him in the crosswalk. Our client was thrown first on top of the vehicle, his head breaking the windshield, before he landed on the street. 

He was transported to the local hospital, where doctors determined the injuries were too catastrophic and had him airlifted to the Mayo Clinic hospital in Rochester. He subsequently underwent surgery to repair his left leg and was fitted with a leg brace for his right leg, among other treatments and therapies. Within days of the crash, he suffered severe complications and was intubated, placed on a respirator, and admitted to the ICU. He spent 2.5 weeks at Mayo and then spent six weeks at a rehabilitation center. While at the rehab center, he again experienced severe complications and spent a few days in the hospital. After returning home, he continued receiving occupational therapy.

Attorney Jeffrey Sieben initiated litigation in December 2023 against the driver and her automobile insurance company. He also hired a Life Care Planner, who conducted interviews with our client and prepared a comprehensive report and video showcasing our client, both pre-crash and post-crash. Two additional medical experts were hired: an orthopedic surgeon and a board-certified physician specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation. These experts met with and evaluated our client and subsequently provided extensive reports on the injuries suffered and the prospects for our client’s future care, treatment, and expectations.

Our client faces a potential knee replacement surgery in his future due to his injuries. He now relies on some home maintenance help and Meals on Wheels to prepare his daily meals.

The case was settled for $1.3 million at mediation in January 2025, approximately 14 months post-crash.