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SOUTHEAST TEXAS RECORD

Friday, April 19, 2024

Local business hit with $82K jury verdict in auto injury case

McGuire

Ruling that there was zero negligence on the part of the plaintiff, a Jefferson County jury has levied an $82,055.13 verdict against Wooden Pallets for an automobile collision caused by one of its truck drivers two years ago.

Yolonda Sumlin filed suit against Wooden Pallets, a Silsbee business, back in March 2008, alleging one of the company's tractor trailers rear-ended her.

A trial was held earlier this month in Judge Gary Sanderson's 60th District Court, and a jury verdict was filed in Jefferson County District Court on Aug. 20.

According to court documents, Sumlin, a Hardin County resident, was traveling within Jefferson County on Nov. 2, 2007, when she was rear-ended.

Her suit alleges the Wooden Pallets tractor trailer was speeding and that the driver failed to keep a proper lookout.

In its response to Sumlin's suit, Wooden Pallets asserted a general denial of any negligence.

Jurors awarded Sumlin $5,000 for her past mental anguish; $30,000 for loss of earning capacity in the past; and $47,055.13 for her past medical expenses.

No damages were awarded for Sumlin's presumed future mental anguish, physical pain, lost earnings or medical expenses.

She was represented by Clint McGuire, attorney for the Law Firm of Alton C. Todd in Friendswood.

The defense was represented in party by attorney William Pilat of the Dallas law firm Kane, Russell, Coleman & Logan.

Case No. B181-509

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