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The Washington Post recently reported that Wal-Mart and Tracy Morgan have reached a settlement with respect to the 2014 crash that involved one of the store’s 18-wheelers and the comedian’s limo bus.  The accident severely injured Morgan and two other passengers and killed a fellow comedian. The settlement terms have not been revealed; however, Morgan has publicly stated that Wal-Mart “did right” by him, his family and his associates’ families as well.

Ft. Myers personal injury attorneys like Randall Spivey are, unfortunately, quite familiar with the heartache and devastation truck vs. automobile accidents can cause, particularly with respect to the Tracy Morgan accident.  People who have experienced such situations know that the force and weight of a truck colliding with a motor vehicle can leave the occupants of the automobile with serious injuries and some may even die from their injuries.

As You Prepare for Your Case, Know the Possible Defenses

When the case was initially brought by Morgan and his legal team against Wal-Mart, Wal-Mart’s attorneys responded by invoking what is commonly referred to as “the seatbelt defense,” whereby Wal-Mart contended that the injuries incurred by the victims happened, in part, due to the fact they were not wearing their seatbelts at the time of the collision.

In New Jersey (where the accident occurred), as well as Florida, the controversial defense is still recognized and is often introduced as part of the analysis used when parties attempt to determine what individual and/or entity should be held legally responsible. Simply put, the defense is typically used by defendants seeking to reduce an injured party’s damages for failing to wear a seatbelt. Still, with skilled legal counsel, harmed individuals can obtain the just compensation they deserve.

The After-Effects of Morgan’s Accident Shines Light on Traumatic Brain Injuries

Months after the accident, many speculated as to whether Morgan, who sustained injuries to his brain, would ever fully return to being “himself.” We first learned that the comedian sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI) during the crash (as well as other injuries to his nose, ribs and legs) through his attorney.  At the time of the accident, the attorney noted that Morgan was “fighting to get better, and if there’s a chance for him to be back to the Tracy Morgan he once was, he’s going to try to do that.”

TBIs can occur after a blow to the head, a sudden bump or any other forceful movement that makes the brain move back and forth inside one’s skull, such that it disturbs the normal functioning of the brain. The types of injuries that can result after a trauma to the head include skull fractures, bruises and/or contusions on the brain, laceration or tears to the brain and concussions, just to name a few.

Brain injuries can also lead to long-term health issues, such as blood pressure changes, headaches, dizziness, fevers, cognitive impairment and epilepsy. With respect to Morgan’s condition, he notes he is still on the mend. However, only time will tell whether or not he will fully recover from his injuries.

If you or someone you love has sustained injuries from a trucking accident or any other type of auto-related accident, contact the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. right away to discuss your case.