Automobile collision trial ends with $246,000 judgment to plaintiff

Jurors handed Christina Jaja a $200,000 judgment Wednesday, Aug. 22. Jaja had sued the Sherman Williams Co. and one of its truck drivers, claiming James Hick's reckless driving caused an auto collision, which resulted in Jaja's injuries.

The trial began on Monday in Judge Sanderson's 60th Judicial Court.

According to the plaintiff's original petition, on Sept. 9, 2004, "a collision occurred because of the recklessness and carelessness of defendants, causing severe and permanent injuries to (JaJa)."

The suit faulted Hick's with failing to keep a proper lookout, driving at an excessive rate of speed, lack of proper control and failure to make a proper and timely application of the brakes.

"In the alternative, defendant Clifton James Hicks was acting in the course and scope of his employment with defendant Sherman Williams, Co. at all times material to this act and as his employer, Defendant Sherman Williams, Co. is responsible for the torts of its employee under the doctrine of respondeat superior," the suit said.

Respondeat superior is Latin for let the master answer.

Jurors awarded Jaja $100,000 for his physical pain, $100,000 for his physical impairment and $46,000 for his medical expenses.

Jaja is represented by Reaud, Morgan & Quinn attorney John Werner.

The defense is represented by the Strong Pipkin law firm.

Case No. B173-469