Facts of the Case

On the evening of March 4, 2020, James D. Donaldson III was operating a rented 2013 Ford Mustang convertible southbound on U.S. 441 in Miami Gardens. At the intersection of NW 204 Terrace, Charles D. Andre, driving a 2009 Mercedes GL550 SUV owned by Nancy Herard, failed to yield the right of way during a left turn and collided violently with Donaldson’s vehicle. The collision caused Donaldson’s Mustang to flip airborne and land on its roof in an adjacent parking lot, subsequently catching fire. Donaldson sustained severe injuries and was pronounced dead days later on March 10, 2020.

Legal Issues Raised

The lawsuit alleged negligence and wrongful death against Charles D. Andre, citing his failure to yield as the d

Damages Awarded

The jury specifically awarded:

• $156,461.95 for medical and funeral expenses.

• $5 million to Emma Arnett, the decedent’s mother, for past and future pain and suffering.

• $2.15 million to James Donaldson II, the decedent’s father, for past and future pain and suffering.

Post-Trial Developments

Following the verdict, Plaintiff's counsel moved for the entry of final judgment, seeking the addition of liability insurer State Farm Mutual as a party defendant, consistent with Florida statutes. They also requested the Court award interest at the statutory rate until full payment of the judgment.

This significant jury award underscores the ongoing legal complexities and high stakes involved in wrongful death claims arising from motor vehicle accidents in Florida.