Lauren Maloney v. Earl S. Baxley, et al.

Case Background

Lauren Maloney filed an auto negligence lawsuit against Florida Farm Bureau General Insurance Company ("Insurance Co."), Kaden R. Sigers ("Tortfeasor"), and Earl S. Baxley ("Owner") following a motor vehicle collision on March 30, 2021, in Macclenny, Florida. The lawsuit was Florida State, Duval County, Fourth Circuit Court. Judge Michael Sharrit presided over this lawsuit. [Case number: 2023-CA-003585]

Cause

At approximately 7:20 a.m., Tortfeasor, while driving a Ford Mustang owned by the Owner, exited a Wendy’s parking lot and attempted to turn right onto State Road 121. In doing so, Tortfeasor negligently operated the vehicle, causing its front end to collide with the right side of Maloney’s vehicle. Maloney, properly restrained at the time, did not contribute to the crash or her resulting injuries. At the time of the incident, Maloney was covered under a policy issued by Insurance Co., which provided uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. The policy was in full force and effect, and Maloney’s damages exceeded the available bodily injury coverage of both Tortfeasor and Owner, rendering them underinsured. Pursuant to the policy, Insurance Co. assumed the role of Tortfeasor for coverage purposes. Maloney made a demand for underinsured motorist benefits, but Insurance Co. rejected the offer and failed to make a reasonable counteroffer to resolve the claim.

Damages

The crash caused the Plaintiff to suffer serious injuries, leading to pain, suffering, and lasting physical and emotional distress. The injuries limited daily activities and enjoyment of life. The Plaintiff also faced hospital sta