Comparative fault cases often require deep investigation, expert analysis, and a legal team willing to dig far beyond the initial police report. That’s exactly what happened in this T-bone collision case referred to Cook, Barkett, Ponder and Wolz: a case that ultimately revealed an additional defendant and resulted in a successful settlement after nearly four years of litigation.

The Collision: A Dangerous Obstruction Leads to a Violent Impact

Our client was traveling with the right of way on a major roadway when another driver approached from a side street and stopped at a stop sign. As our client neared the intersection, the other driver’s view of oncoming traffic, including our client, was completely blocked by a large snow pile at the corner of the intersection.

Believing the roadway was clear, the at-fault driver pulled out directly in front of our client, causing a violent T-bone collision. The impact left our client with significant injuries, including:

• • A broken foot
  • A broken nose
  • Additional trauma requiring ongoing care

Initially, the case appeared to involve only the negligent driver pulling into traffic. But the situation was far more complex.

CBPW’s Investigation Reveals an Additional Defendant

Once the case was referred to CBPW, our team immediately brought in highly experienced accident reconstructionists and scene experts. Their investigation uncovered a critical fact:

The large snow pile that blocked the driver’s view had been created by a local business owner who had pushed accumulated snow from their parking area into a corner where it obstructed visibility for drivers at the intersection.

This dangerous obstruction directly contributed to the collision, and without our expertise, this truth may never have been discovered.

Evidence That Changed Everything

Through advanced reconstruction analysis, witness interviews, and detailed scene evaluation, our experts demonstrated:

• • The snow pile created a complete visual obstruction
  • The at-fault driver could not see oncoming traffic
  • The placement of the snow was negligent and dangerous
  • Both the driver and the business owner contributed to the cause of the crash

This evidence proved essential in establishing liability and ensuring our client received justice.

A Hard-Fought Settlement

This case required patience, persistence, and extensive litigation. After nearly four years of work, and with trial only days away, the parties entered mediation. Armed with the irrefutable evidence uncovered through our investigation, CBPW successfully resolved the case at mediation, securing a strong result for our client.

Why Attorneys Trust CBPW With Their Most Complex Cases

When fellow attorneys refer serious, disputed, or comparative fault cases to CBPW, they gain:

1. Immediate Access to Leading Experts

Accident reconstructionists, engineers, scene investigators, and medical experts ready to evaluate complex scenarios.

2. Full Litigation Support

From discovery and motion practice to depositions, hearings, and trial preparation.

3. Ability to Handle High-Cost, High-Complexity Cases

We absorb litigation expenses and dedicate the necessary resources for long-term, expert-driven cases.

4. Comprehensive Client Support

We help clients navigate treatment, medical care, and the emotional challenges that accompany severe injuries.

CBPW: Uncovering the Truth Others Miss

Some cases require more than standard representation. They require a legal team willing to dig deeper, bring in specialists, and uncover the truth hidden beneath the surface.

If you have a complex injury case or a comparative fault matter that needs expert-level investigation, CBPW is here to help.

Contact Cook, Barkett, Ponder and Wolz today to discuss your case or referral. We fight to reveal the truth and win the justice our clients deserve.