Gach v Hantle

Court/Case No: Livingston County Circuit Court | 22-31391-NI

Tried/Argued Before: Jury Trial

Demand: $1,200,000.00

Verdict: No Cause

Name of Judge(s): Hon. Michael P. Hatty

Keys to the Case:

This was a third-party auto negligence case arising out of a June 22, 2021 motor vehicle accident. Plaintiff sued Defendant (not in vehicle at the time) under Michigan’s Owner’s Liability Statute. Plaintiff and Defendant’s daughter collided in the middle of an intersection. Defendant’s daughter was turning left and Plaintiff was traveling in the through lane. Both claimed to have the green light.

Plaintiff had multiple fractures in her ankle and heel that required two surgeries with a third surgery scheduled for September 2023. Plaintiff’s surgeon testified that she has permanent disabilities and will never be able to work without restrictions.

Defense counsel argued that there was no negligence on behalf of Defendant’s daughter based on vehicle photos, eyewitness testimony, and Deputy testimony. Defense counsel also impeached Plaintiff with her medical records, employment records, accident photos, and dash cam footage from the Deputy’s cruiser.

Plaintiff requested $1,200,000 for past, present, and future economic and noneconomic damages. After three minutes of deliberation, the jury found that Defendant’s daughter was not negligent and returned a unanimous no cause verdict in Defendant’s favor.

Defense SW attorney(s) Involved in Case:

• Cleveland B. Simmons
• Amber Rouse Holloway