$300K Verdict in Underinsured Motorist Injury Case Against Cincinnati Insurance

Facts in the Backdrop of the Incident

On August 7, 2019, around 3:11 p.m., Eleanor Mario drove south on Ella T. Grasso Boulevard in New Haven, Connecticut. She approached the intersection at Kimberly Avenue. Her traffic light turned green. She continued through the intersection, heading north toward Marsh Hill Road. At that moment, another vehicle, driven by Rena Shlomo, traveled west on Kimberly Avenue. Shlomo’s light was red. Despite this, she entered the intersection attempting a left turn. Her vehicle collided with Mario’s car.

Events Leading to the Legal Dispute

Rena Shlomo ran a red light. She attempted an improper left turn. She failed to stop at the signal, violating Connecticut General Statutes §14-299(b)(3). She did not maintain control, brake in time, or avoid the crash. She also failed to warn Mario. Shlomo was underinsured. On September 30, 2022, Mario settled her claim against Shlomo’s insurer, Geico, for the full $100,000 policy limit. Mario then turned to her own insurance provider, The Cincinnati Insurance Company, for underinsured motorist benefits.

Plaintiff’s Injuries and Their Impact

The crash caused significant injuries. Mario suffered cervical disc issues at C5-C6 and C6-C7. She experienced neural foraminal narrowing and loss of natural cervical curve. She also endured a cervical strain, back pain, and sleep loss. These injuries caused lasting physical pain. They affected her emotional well-being. She now faces potential