Man Left Paralyzed After Crash Wins $21 Million

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September 10th, 2007

"Vermont Auto Accident Victim Awarded"

A Vermont man who suffered permanent injury in a 2005 auto accident has been awarded $21 million. The verdict is thought to be one of the largest ever handed down in the state.

The Crash

Two years ago, Ralph Currier was severely injured when the car he was in crashed into a house and veterinary clinic. The car was being driven by Taylor Quinn at speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour.

“She turned her car into a rocket and launched it into a house,” said Robert Sand, state attorney of Windsor County.

The Lawsuit

Currier, now 21 and quadriplegic, filed the lawsuit against Suzanne Schipper—Quinn's mother. The lawsuit accused Schipper of “negligent entrustment.”

In her ruling, Judge Theresa DiMauro described the effects of the crash on Currier.

“Virtually all of his basic needs must be met by others,” she wrote. “The daily physical pain he experiences is regulated by several prescription medications, including Percocet and Oxycontin. The emotional pain cannot be controlled by medication. This previously robust, able-bodied 18-year-old is now confined to a wheelchair.”

The award will help cover his present and future medical care, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Driver Serves Jail Time

Quinn was previously convicted on charges of gross negligent operation of a vehicle resulting in serious physical harm and served a 10-month prison sentence.

(Source: The Boston Globe online)

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