Zeljko Boskovic v. Richard P. Reagan

Case Background

Boskovic filed a Pedestrian Accident lawsuit on October 26, 2020, against Reagan in the Superior Court, J.D. of Rockville at Tolland, Connecticut (Case number: TTD-CV20-6021407-S). Judge Matthew Gordon presided over the case.

Cause

On March 11, 2019, at approximately 8:36 p.m., Zeljko Boskovic walked along Tuckie Road in Windham, Connecticut. He moved north on a dirt patch beside the road. At the same time, Richard Reagan drove a motor vehicle north on Tuckie Road and suddenly struck Boskovic. Boskovic alleged that Reagan was negligent in several ways. Reagan failed to use due care to avoid striking a pedestrian, violating Connecticut General Statutes § 14-300d. He did not keep a proper lookout or effectively use his brakes to avoid the collision. He failed to control his vehicle properly and potentially operated with defective brakes, violating Connecticut General Statutes § 14-80. Boskovic claimed that Reagan did not use the degree of care a reasonably prudent person would have used under the circumstances. Furthermore, Reagan failed to keep his vehicle away from Boskovic, turn his vehicle to avoid impact, or signal his approach by sounding a horn or other means.

Injuries

As a result of the accident, Boskovic suffered numerous injuries, some of which may be permanent. He experienced a severe shock to his nervous system, leading to mental and physical pain and suffering. Boskovic sustained a head injury, the details of which were not specified in the complaint. He also suffered persistent headaches, a left shoulder injury resulting in ongoing pain, and a neck injury leading to chronic pain. Additionally, he sustained a back injury that caused continuous pain. These injuries collectively impacted Boskovic’s overall health and well-being, potentially leading to long-term consequences.

Damages

The plaintiff incurred substantial damages due to the accident. Boskovic had to pay for a wide range of medical treatments and services, including hospital care, necessary surgeries, x-rays, MRI scans, and various diagnostic tests. He also required physical therapy and nursing care and had to purchase medicines. Boskovic stated that these medical expenses might continue into the future, indicating ongoing treatment needs.

Key Arguments and Proceedings

Legal representation

  • Plaintiff(s): Zeljko Boskovic
    • Counsel for Plaintiff: David J. Scully

 

  • Defendant(s):Richard P. Regan
    • Counsel for Defendants: Cynthia A. Jaworski

Claims

Boskovic claimed that Reagan’s negligent and careless driving caused the collision and subsequent injuries. Boskovic sought money damages to compensate for his injuries, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lifestyle impacts. He also sought to recover the costs associated with the lawsuit and any other relief the court might deem equitable and proper. Boskovic stated that the amount sought was greater than $15,000, exclusive of interest and costs.

Defense

In their answer, Reagan admitted to driving north on Tuckie Road at about 8:30 p.m. on March 11, 2019. However, Reagan denied the allegations of negligence and carelessness. For most other claims, Reagan stated he had insufficient knowledge or information to form a belief and left the plaintiff to his proof.

In the special defense, Reagan claimed that Boskovic was himself negligent, and this negligence was a substantial factor in causing the occurrence and injuries. The defense alleged that Boskovic failed to keep a proper lookout, watch where he was walking, and make reasonable use of his senses and faculties. They claimed that Boskovic failed to use reasonable care for his safety, did not take proper precautions to observe existing conditions, and walked on or near the road with his back towards traffic while wearing black clothing. This, they argued, contributed to the accident. They also alleged that Boskovic was using the street negligently in disregard of his safety, violating Connecticut General Statutes §53-182. The defense aimed to shift at least part of the blame for the accident onto Boskovic, potentially reducing Reagan’s liability.

Jury Verdict

On February 24, 2024, the jury found in favor of the defendant, Richard Reagan in Pedestrian Accident lawsuit.

Court Documents:

Complaint

Answer

Jury Verdict