Laura Moreno was the front-seat passenger in a Maserati driven by Manuel Ruiz Diaz. As the two drove down a four-lane highway, Diaz began speeding and allegedly racing with Jose Luis Rodriguez, who was driving a Ferarri behind them. Diaz lost control of the Maserati, which rolled off the road and crashed into a tree.
Moreno was ejected from the vehicle, suffering multiple orthopedic injuries, including a broken left femur, a fractured knee, and a broken right tibia. She underwent surgery and required rehabilitation to learn to walk again. She now walks with a limp, has residual pain, and may require future orthopedic surgeries. Her medical expenses were about $193,000. A self-employed beauty supply store owner, the accident caused her to lose a hair product deal with QVC valued at $72,000.
Moreno sued Diaz and Rodriguez, alleging negligent driving.
The jury awarded about $1.27 million, finding Diaz 80 percent liable and Rodriguez 20 percent responsible.
Citation: Moreno v. Rodriguez, No. 2008-12-6677-C (Tex., Cameron Co. Jud. Dist. Jan. 19, 2011).
Plaintiff counsel: AAJ member Amber Medina, Brownsville, Texas.
