Segal McCambridge Trial Team Resolves High-Exposure Catastrophic Injury Case During Bergen County Trial

A Segal McCambridge trial team led by Shareholder Kenneth Williams, Of Counsel Cynthia Hung, and Senior Associate Jeffrey Hall-Gale successfully resolved a high-exposure catastrophic injury matter during trial in Bergen County, New Jersey, protecting the client and carrier from the significant risks associated with a potential nuclear verdict estimated between $5 million and $30 million.

The case involved a young female pedestrian who was struck by a motor vehicle making a left turn while she was crossing the street. Although conscious at the scene, the plaintiff sustained severe head trauma and was transported to the emergency room, where she was diagnosed with intracranial hemorrhaging, skull fractures and brain contusions.

As part of her treatment, the plaintiff underwent a hemicraniotomy, during which a portion of her skull was removed to relieve pressure on the brain. She remained hospitalized for approximately 10 days before transferring to an inpatient rehabilitation facility for continued monitoring and therapy. The plaintiff later continued outpatient treatment for several months and ultimately underwent a second surgery to implant a permanent prosthetic piece to replace the removed portion of her skull.

The matter proceeded to trial in Bergen County, where the plaintiff presented testimony from her treating neurosurgeon, as well as compelling testimony regarding the lasting impact of her injuries, including permanent disfigurement. After three days of trial, and prior to closing arguments, the Segal McCambridge team successfully negotiated a settlement resolving the matter following the team’s success on a Motion in Limine that prevented the plaintiff’s treating neurosurgeon from testifying as to permanency of the injury.

Given the severity of the injuries, the sympathetic nature of the plaintiff and the venue, the case presented substantial exposure concerns. Throughout trial, the defense team continually evaluated witness testimony, jury dynamics and overall risk exposure, ultimately securing a resolution that protected the client’s interests before the matter was submitted to the jury.