Motorcyclist Injured In Collision With Car Defendant Was Driving To Airport For Resort Company

From the July 02, 2001 Missouri Lawyers Weekly.

Plaintiff, 43, and his wife sued John Stenseth and his employers after Stenseth’s vehicle collided with Plaintiff’s motorcycle in May 1999.

Plaintiff, who was driving his motorcycle within the speed limit on Highway 160, claimed that Stenseth drove into his path. Plaintiff’s wife was following on her motorcycle and was able to avoid the collision. Plaintiff suffered a mild closed head injury, fractured pelvis, broken left femur, multiple ankle fractures and internal injuries after he was thrown onto the hood of the car and then to the pavement.

After extensive hospitalization and rehabilitation, Plaintiff continues to have physical and cognitive deficits preventing employment. He had been employed by St. John’s Hospital as a maintenance worker specializing in welding and fabricating equipment.

Plaintiff claimed that at the time of the accident Stenseth, who was driving to the Springfield Airport, was acting within the scope and course of employment and/or agency for Fun Country Marine and Table Rock Lake-Branson House Boat Rentals, which were both managed by Forever Resorts, Inc. Plaintiff claimed all three companies were vicariously liable for Stenseth’s negligence.

Stenseth’s Insurance company paid the policy limits of $100,000. Trial was scheduled to begin June 4.

Type of Action: Motorcycle accident
Type of Injuries: Mild closed head injury, fractured pelvis, broken left femur, multiple fractures to right ankle, internal injuries
Verdict or Settlement: $3.6 million settlement
Attorney for Plaintiffs: Michael Johnson, The Strong-Garner-Bauer, Springfield