November 1, 2018 CATASTROPHIC INJURY, VEGETATIVE STATE
Style: Earl B. Mason Sr. as Plenary Guardian of the ward, Earl B. Mason Jr. v. Robert Hines as Personal Representative of the Estate of Nyla Whiting
Venue: Circuit Court , Hillsborough County , Florida
Defendant Nyla Whiting, age 70, had been the driver of a 2002 Toyota Corolla traveling southbound on 78th St., Tampa, Florida. Plaintiff Earl B Mason Jr. had been a pedestrian who walked into the path of traffic as he attempted to cross 78th St eastbound, approximately 70 ft. from an available pedestrian crosswalk.
Ms. Whiting was unable to avoid striking Mr. Mason making impact between 18 and 22 mph.
Mr. Mason suffered catastrophic injuries and institutionalized in a vegetative state since the accident.
Past medical expenses was $546,742.
Plaintiff sought future medical expense and cost of life care in the amount of $5,514,679 in addition to unspecified amount for pain and suffering.
Experts on behalf of Plaintiff: Robert Martinez MD, Gerri Pennachio, vocational rehab, Brenda Mulder MBA, Steven Koontz PE
Experts on behalf of Defendant: Steven Bifulco MD, Cynthia Stephens Ph D, Charles O Funk Ph D, PE
The matter proceeded to arbitration October 29 2018 with arbitration award entered November 1 2018 in favor of Defendant.
No damages were awarded.