Trial News

As Hector Valiente, 46, was driving a car carrier on an interstate highway, Luis Perez, who was driving a box truck for Garden State Lumber, rear-ended him. Valiente suffered aggravation of preexisting disk herniations at C4-5 and C5-6, requiring surgery. He also suffered knee injuries, which necessitated a partial meniscectomy and later, a total knee replacement. Valiente, whose medical expenses were approximately $150,000, is unable to continue playing soccer and experiences pain since the collision.

Valiente sued Perez and Garden State Lumber Products Transport, alleging liability for the collision. Suit did not claim lost income.

The defense argued that the plaintiff’s injuries were preexisting.

The parties settled for $1.45 million.

Citation: Valiente v. Garden State Lumber Prods. Transport, Undisclosed Dkt. No. (N.J. Super. Ct. Union Cnty. May 8, 2023).

Plaintiff counsel: William Bock, Woodbridge, N.J.