Perrier & Lacoste Obtains Unanimous Defense Verdict on Liability – May 2021

The Perrier & Lacoste litigation team of Ralph Aucoin, Jr. and Guy Perrier obtained a unanimous defense verdict on liability following a jury trial in Orleans Parish Civil District Court.

The case involved a commercial truck driver operating an 18-wheeler attempting to make a wide right turn in an industrial area. Plaintiff argued that his vehicle was struck when the commercial driver made a right turn from the left-hand lane. Plaintiff’s testimony was supported by an independent witness who testified via Zoom and in uniform as he is a currently deployed member of the Louisiana National Guard. The defense team was able to point out enough inconsistencies between the Plaintiff’s version of events and the independent witness to discredit their testimony.

Plaintiff alleged injuries to his neck and back with treatment including a lumbar radiofrequency ablation, and five bilateral lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injections. Past medical expenses totaled over $100,000.00. Recommended future medical treatment included 2-3 injections per year for 4-5 years followed by a recommended lumbar fusion surgery. Estimated future medical expenses averaged $425,000.00. Plaintiff sought in excess of $2.1M in total damages.

After deliberating for approximately one hour, the jury returned a unanimous verdict finding the Defendants completely free from fault.

On December 15, 2022 the Louisiana Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the trial court’s denial of plaintiff’s post-trial motions challenging the jury’s verdict.