Gordon McKernan & Richard (Richie) Zimmerman, III Settle Rear-End Accident for $300,000

PRLog (Press Release) - Jan. 5, 2012 - Plaintiff (our client), a 38 year old electrician, was operating his vehicle on LA Highway 946 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, when he came to a complete stop in order to execute a left turn.  The defendant driver failed to bring his vehicle to a total stop and ran into the rear of Plaintiff’s vehicle, causing $800 in property damage.  Plaintiff had a long history of pre-existing back pain due to a herniated disk at the L4-5 level and was receiving medical treatment for same at the time of the accident.  Following the accident, an MRI was performed, but it failed to reveal any change to his pre-existing herniated disc.  Plaintiff argued that the accident aggravated his symptoms, caused a large increase in pain, and that he was no longer able to avoid surgery.  As a result of the increased pain, Plaintiff underwent a minimally invasive lumbar hemilaminectomy.  Defendants contested causation arguing that the Plaintiff had a history of chronic back pain, there had been no change in his MRI post-accident, and that his doctors had recommended surgery prior to the accident.  Plaintiff’s total medical expenses were $50,000.  The case was resolved at mediation for $300,000.00.      

John McDonner v. Ignatius Canella, et al No. 594868, 19th JDC, 12/11
Plaintiff’s counsel:  Richard F. Zimmerman, III, and Gordon McKernan, McKernan Law Firm, Baton Rouge
Plaintiff’s experts:  Dr. Kelly Scrantz, Neurosurgery, Baton Rouge.

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Gordon McKernan - Injury Lawyers is a Louisiana personal injury firm. Our focus is to fight for those that have been injured due to another's negligence. We let you concentrate on the healing process while we work hard to get you what you deserve.