FORT WORTH – LAWFUEL – A Cleburne resident who was critically injured in a June 2004 collision with an 18-wheeler has reached a $1.2 million settlement with the driver and owners of the tractor-trailer rig.
Lidio Ortiz, 54, suffered severe back and head injuries, two bone fractures and multiple lacerations when his car was struck by the 18-wheeler driven by William Donald Golaz, an employee of JM Oil Field Services of Graham. The collision occurred on State Highway 171/174, just south of Cleburne’s central business district. An investigation determined Mr. Golaz made an improper right turn, striking the car driven by Mr. Ortiz.
Following the collision Mr. Ortiz was transported by CareFlite to a Fort Worth hospital where he spent more than two weeks recovering from his initial injuries. He will require spinal surgery and additional physical therapy to further treat his injuries.
“The defendant truck company failed to comply with Texas Department of Transportation regulations and Federal Motor Carrier Safety regulations regarding driver hiring, training, and retention. The civil justice system worked as it should to hold the responsible parties accountable for Lidio’s injuries,” said John David Hart of Fort Worth, the attorney who represents Mr. Ortiz. “This agreement will enable Lidio to continue his medical care and provide the means to compensate for his physical limitations as a result of this tragic incident.”
The Law Offices of John David Hart is a group of experienced and dedicated legal professionals working to protect the rights of people injured by the acts of others. Across the country, the firm represents people in cases of catastrophic personal injury, wrongful death, dangerous drugs, automobile and truck accidents, workplace injuries and other matters.
More information is available at www.hartlaw.com.
