Miami Jury Awards $5M in Bus Stop Injury Case

Case Background

On March 4, 2023, Stephanie Johnson and Jose Figueroa waited at a bus stop along NW 79th Street in Miami-Dade County. At the same time, Nicolas Caprile drove a vehicle owned by AFA Towing & Recovery, LLC, eastbound on the same road. The vehicle left its lane and struck both pedestrians.

Johnson and Figueroa claimed the impact caused serious physical injuries. They alleged Caprile failed to drive with reasonable care and that AFA Towing was vicariously responsible as the vehicle’s owner and Caprile’s employer or principal.

Cause

The Plaintiffs accused Caprile of negligent driving. They said his careless handling of the tow company’s vehicle caused it to collide with them while they stood at the bus stop.

Injury

Johnson claimed she suffered permanent bodily injuries. She described her losses as physical pain, mental anguish, disability, disfigurement, and reduced capacity to enjoy life. She also said she needed hospitalization, ongoing medical care, and faced future loss of earnings.

Figueroa alleged similar injuries and long-term effects from the same collision.

Damages

Johnson asked for compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and reduced earning capacity. She also sought damages for pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life, both past and future.

Key Arguments and Proceedings

Plaintiff’s Position