Test drives are supposed to be controlled, supervised, and safe. But when a dealership allows an inattentive driver behind the wheel, the consequences can be catastrophic. Cook, Barkett, Ponder and Wolz secured a $4.5 million judgment for a client whose life was upended when a negligent test driver caused a violent rear-end collision.
The Collision: Test-Drive Turns Dangerous
The defendant was visiting a car dealership and reviewing vehicles available for test drive. After selecting a vehicle and taking it out on the roadway, the driver failed to pay attention to traffic conditions ahead.
Our client was properly stopped, waiting to make a left turn, when the distracted defendant slammed into the rear of her vehicle.
The impact was severe, causing significant neck and spine trauma.
Serious Injuries With Long-Term Consequences
As a result of the crash, our client suffered cervical spine injuries that required extensive medical care. These injuries affected her mobility, comfort, and ability to perform daily activities, challenges that will impact her for years to come.
Rear-end collisions are preventable, especially during a dealership-supervised test drive. However, careless operation of these vehicles can result in a dangerous situation with life-altering consequences.
Proving Negligence and Securing Justice
Through thorough investigation, detailed evidence presentation, and strategic litigation, CBPW demonstrated:
- The defendant failed to maintain a proper lookout
- The driver operated the test-drive vehicle in an unsafe manner
- The dealership’s involvement did not absolve the driver of his responsibility
- The crash directly caused the client’s cervical spine injuries
Because liability was clear and the damages were substantial, CBPW pursued the case aggressively in court. The result? A $4.5 million judgment in favor of the injured plaintiff. This judgment provides vital financial compensation for medical treatment, pain, ongoing limitations, and the long-term impact of cervical injuries.
Standing Up for Those Hurt by Negligent Drivers
Whether a collision happens on the highway, in a neighborhood, or as in this case, during a dealership test drive, negligent drivers must be held accountable. CBPW brings the experience, resources, and courtroom readiness necessary to win significant results for injured clients. This $4.5 million judgment reflects our commitment to securing full justice when lives are disrupted by preventable collisions.
When You’ve Been Injured, CBPW Is Ready to Fight for You
If you or someone you love has been injured due to another driver’s negligence, whether during a test drive or any other situation, you deserve a team that stands with you and fights to win.
Contact Cook, Barkett, Ponder and Wolz today for a free consultation.
We pursue justice. We expose negligence. And we fight to win.