$89,000 Jury Verdict: Rear-End Collision in Snowstorm Leaves Plaintiff Injured in Pittman, New Jersey

Injury Type: Back injuries, herniated disc, bulging disc, cervical radiculitis

Accident Type: Rear-end collision

Award Amount: $89,000

Location: Pittman, New Jersey

During a snowstorm, the plaintiff was seated in a parked car when it was struck by a vehicle driven by the defendant. The plaintiff sustained neck and back injuries, including herniated discs, bulging discs, and cervical radiculitis. The plaintiff sued the defendant for negligence in operating their vehicle.

The defendant denied liability, claiming that the plaintiff was outside the parked car at the time of the accident. The defense further asserted a phantom vehicle defense, alleging that an unidentified car had cut in front of the defendant’s vehicle, causing the collision with the parked car.

The jury rejected the phantom vehicle defense and assigned 100% liability to the defendant. The plaintiff was awarded $89,000 in damages for the injuries sustained during the collision.

This case illustrates the challenges of proving liability in adverse weather conditions and emphasizes accountability in vehicle operation during snowstorms.

Case Reference: Nishida v. Petrusky, L-2204-05