Palmer v. Wade

Case Background

John Palmer filed an auto negligence lawsuit against Chasidy Wade after a right-of-way motor vehicle accident on a highway in Mississippi. Palmer sustained multiple injuries in the collision and sought compensation for his medical expenses.

 

The case was filed in the 13th Circuit Court of Mississippi. Judge Stanley Sorey presided over the case. [Case number: 23-268]

Cause

On February 6, 2023, John Palmer, then 62 years old, drove along U.S. Highway 49 in Mendenhall. Shortly after, Chasidy Wade attempted to cross the highway. While pulling out from a stop sign, Wade collided with the passenger side of Palmer’s pick-up truck. The impact caused minor damage to the vehicle.

Injury

After the collision, John Palmer sought medical treatment for multiple injuries, including neck and back pain. Additionally, the incident aggravated his pre-existing degenerative shoulder condition. An MRI later revealed a full-thickness rotator cuff tear, further complicating his condition.

Palmer’s treating physician, Dr. Gregory Bredemeier, evaluated these injuries and confirmed their severity. He testified that the collision directly aggravated Palmer’s pre-existing shoulder condition. However, despite the extent of the injury, Dr. Bredemeier determined that Palmer was not a suitable candidate for surgical repair.

Damages

John Palmer incurred $10,255 in medical expenses related to his injuries. Through this lawsuit, he pursued damages from Chasidy Wade.

Key Arguments and Proceedings

Legal Representation

  • Plaintiff(s):  John Palmer
    • Counsel for Plaintiff(s): Daniel D. Ware
  • Defendant(s): Chasidy Wade
    • Counsel for Defendant(s): Trace D. McRaney

Claims

John Palmer sought damages for physical injuries and medical expenses resulting from the collision, which he alleged directly caused or aggravated his conditions. Palmer contended that Chasidy Wade’s failure to yield the right-of-way constituted negligence, making her liable for the injuries and associated costs.

Defense

As the trial neared, Chasidy Wade admitted fault for the collision. Consequently, her defense concentrated on challenging the extent of Palmer’s claimed injuries. To support her position, she highlighted two key points: Palmer’s history of degenerative conditions and the minor damage to the vehicles.

Jury Verdict

The case proceeded to trial in Mendenhall and concluded in a single day. On September 10, 2024, the jury delivered a handwritten verdict, awarding $25,000 to John Palmer. The court entered a judgment consistent with the jury’s decision in favor of the Plaintiff in this auto negligence lawsuit.

Court Documents:

Available upon request