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(USA Herald) - My name is Samuel Adam, and as a legal news contributor for the USA Herald, I bring you a gripping account of a Florida family's pursuit of justice. After a life-shattering car crash in 2019, a Florida state court jury awarded more than $7 million to the Agnew family. This poignant story highlights the extent to which insurance companies will go to minimize their payouts, even when their insured has caused irreversible, life-altering damage.

The six-day trial in Alachua County focused on a tragic car crash at the intersection of State Road 26 and NW 143rd Street on June 13, 2019. The jury found driver Sebastian Harknett, who was driving a heavy-duty Chevrolet Silverado Keeler Roofing work truck, mostly negligent for the accident that left Thaddeus Agnew, a U.S. Navy veteran and father, with severe injuries. Agnew was driving his Hyundai Sonata when the devastating collision occurred.

Following the catastrophic collision, Agnew endured a stroke, loss of vision in both eyes, diminished cognitive functions, and other debilitating injuries.

According to Agnew's attorney, Jordan A. Dulcie, Agnew was driving home from work for Sysco Corp. when the accident happened. The intersection was under construction and had recently experienced rainfall, resulting in wet conditions. Agnew claimed the stoplight was flashing red, and after stopping and checking both ways, he proceeded through the intersection. Harknett, however, insisted that he had a green light and collided with Agnew's vehicle halfway through the intersection. Dulcie argued that Harknett was driving too fast for the conditions.

The jury concluded that Harknett was 80% at fault for the crash, attributing the remaining 20% of negligence to Agnew. Of the $7 million awarded to the Agnew family, Thaddeus Agnew received $5.9 million, including $1.3 million for future loss of earnings, $1.25 million in damages for past pain and suffering, and $2.5 million for future pain and suffering. The remaining amount was awarded to Agnew's family for loss of consortium.

As a keen observer of the legal landscape, I can't help but note, "The verdict amount, although significant, cannot truly compensate for the permanent injuries Thaddeus Agnew has endured. This case exposes the lengths insurance companies will go to pay out as little as possible, even when their insured has caused life-altering damage."

Keeler Roofing, as Harknett's employer, is also responsible for paying damages. Their insurer, Auto-Owners Insurance Company, held a $2 million insurance policy but stubbornly offered a mere $300,000 to settle the case before trial, despite Agnew's catastrophic injuries.

With the trial concluded, Agnew's attorney Dulcie indicated that he would pursue a bad faith case against Auto-Owners Insurance Company. This development is a testament to the Agnew family's unwavering determination and their legal team's commitment to seeking justice and holding those responsible for this tragic event accountable.

As this emotionally charged legal battle continues, I will be here to provide you with engaging and compelling updates on the Agnew family's journey towards justice.

By Samuel A. Lopez, Legal News Contributor for USA Herald