Successful Settlement Secured in Catastrophic Trucking Accident on US-1

On December 18, 2018, our client, Joe Lippo, was catastrophically injured in a trucking accident on US-1 in St. Augustine, Florida. This case illustrates the devastating consequences of commercial truck negligence and the aggressive legal advocacy required to secure justice for victims.

A Semi-Truck Improperly Parked in the Roadway

On the morning of the crash, visibility was low due to fog and darkness. A commercial semi-truck delivering construction materials had become frustrated with site workers and parked the truck in the right-hand lane of US-1, leaving the vehicle completely stationary in an active travel lane.

The driver then exited the truck to argue with workers about his delivery, abandoning a commercial vehicle in the roadway without warning, hazard signals, or proper clearance.

While traveling southbound under normal driving conditions, our client had no reasonable ability to detect or avoid the unlit semi-truck obstructing the lane. The collision occurred at approximately 66 mph and caused his full-size Suburban to go airborne and roll several times, resulting in catastrophic injuries.

Catastrophic, Life-Altering Injuries

The impact caused severe trauma, including:

  • Multiple facial fractures requiring reconstructive surgery 
  • Loss of an eye and permanent vision impairment
  • Serious arm and leg injuries
  • Months of required inpatient rehabilitation
  • Permanent inability to return to his profession
  • Traumatic Brain Injury 

Immediate Legal Action and Strategic Case Building

The family contacted Mowrey Law Firm immediately. Attorney Dan Mowrey met with physicians, examined the medical prognosis, and ensured the client received necessary inpatient rehabilitation, a critical step in documenting long-term damages.

The Legal Strategy That Secured a Multi-Million-Dollar Settlement:

  • Conducted an in-depth investigation of the trucking company and driver
  • Secured evidence showing the semi-truck was improperly parked in an active lane
  • Managed all communication with insurers and medical providers
  • Coordinated extensive medical records and financial documentation
  • Handled complex accident reconstruction and liability analysis

A Strong Settlement for the Future

Mowrey Law Firm secured a significant settlement that provided our client:

  • Long-term financial security
  • Coverage for extensive medical treatment
  • Compensation for permanent disability and loss of income
  • Stability and peace of mind for the family’s future

Client Testimonial Video

If You or a Loved One Has Been Injured in a Trucking Accident

Commercial truck accidents often involve complex liability, aggressive insurance carriers, and life-changing injuries. Our team has the experience, resources, and proven results to take on major trucking companies and secure the compensation clients deserve.

At Mowrey Law Firm, we are your local St. Augustine Personal Injury Attorneys, and we’re here to help.

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Daniel A Mowrey, Esq.
With over 25 years of legal experience, Dan started Mowrey Law to carry out his practice and passion for helping others. His dedication to helping others achieve and obtain justice is the inspiration for the firm’s focus on personal injury, criminal defense and civil litigation.
 
The firm’s approach is straightforward, consistent and down-to-earth. Whether visiting the location of an incident or being readily available to his clients, Mr. Mowrey is committed to covering all aspects of your matter to ensure every detail of your case is handled. Through hard work and a strong work ethic, Dan and his team are devoted to fighting for the results his clients rightfully deserve. Active in the St. Augustine business and philanthropic arenas, Dan is committed to giving back to the community that he and his family have called home for over twenty years.
 
Prior to starting Mowrey Law Firm, Mr. Mowrey attended Florida State University on a full scholarship to play football for the Seminoles. After graduation from FSU, Dan worked for two years at a national trucking company before attending and completing law school. His legal career began in 2000 when the Office of the State Attorney in the Seventh Circuit hired Dan as a prosecutor. After four years serving at the State Attorney’s Office, he transitioned into private practice, focusing on guiding and advising individuals and small businesses through complex legal matters.
 
In 2008, Dan became a founding partner in Mowrey, Shoemaker, and Beardsley, (“MSB”), a firm regarded by many in the area as one of St. Johns County’s most prestigious law firms. While at MSB, Mr. Mowrey primarily focused his practice on personal injury, criminal defense and complex civil matters. Combining his early years with the State Attorney’s Office with his many years of private practice, Dan has gleaned substantial trial experience, having tried over 50 jury and over 150 non-jury trials.
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