$3 Million award to Family of Young Man Killed in Chain Reaction Crash on I-80 in LaSalle County
On August 1, 2016, Octavio was sitting in his work truck stopped in construction traffic on westbound I-80 in LaSalle County, Illinois. Little did he know that several yards behind him, a truck driver had failed to slow his semi-tractor trailer as he approached Octavio and the stopped traffic behind him. The truck driver crashed into a car which caused a chain reaction collision involving multiple vehicles. Tragically, Octavio and a young engaged couple in another vehicle were killed.
Octavio’s wife turned to Meyers & Flowers partners Jonathan Mincieli and Craig Brown for help with this devastating case as she faced having to raise three small children on her own.
Exhaustive research revealed that the truck driver and his employer only had $1 Million of liability coverage. However, Jonathan Mincieli, lead counsel for the firm, was able to establish evidence to prove three other defendants, who did not employ the negligent trucker, were still legally responsible for Octavio’s death.
“By establishing liability against the other defendants through legal principles of apparent agency, joint venture liability, and broker liability, we were able to identify an additional $6 million in insurance coverage that otherwise would have been overlooked,” said Mr. Mincieli.
All four defendants agreed to pay their full $7 million policy limits to the three families who were tragically killed in this senseless crash. Ultimately, Meyers & Flowers obtained a $3 million payment for Octavio’s family while the other two families received $2.1 million and $1.9 million each.
“I am so thankful through Jonathan’s hard work, we were able to establish liability against companies other than the underinsured truck driver. This man should never be allowed to operate a truck again,” said Mr. Brown. “Because of this award, Octavio’s wife will be able to provide for her children while they continue to mourn the death of an amazing husband and father and rebuild their lives.”
If you or your family has been involved in a serious truck crash, contact Meyers & Flowers. Our attorneys have the experience and skills needed to protect your rights and ensure that you are fully compensated both now and in the future. We can be reached online or at (630) 232-6333 to request a case evaluation.