Glugeth & Pierguidi Secures $900,000 Settlement for Driver Injured in New Jersey Turnpike Hit-and-Run Crash
Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C. has successfully secured a $900,000 settlement for a New Jersey man who suffered severe spinal injuries
Glugeth & Pierguidi, P.C. has successfully secured a $900,000 settlement for a New Jersey man who suffered severe spinal injuries after being struck by a commercial vehicle on the New Jersey Turnpike in 2023. The commercial driver responsible for the crash fled the scene at high speed, leaving the injured driver behind as airbags deployed inside his vehicle.
According to the case file, the collision occurred when a commercial van made an improper lane change at an excessive speed, striking the client’s vehicle and immediately fleeing the scene. State Police investigations, GPS records, and toll data confirmed the commercial van’s involvement. Liability was determined to be 100% against the commercial defendants.
Severe and Lasting Spinal Injuries
The client, who had no prior history of neck or lower back problems, suffered significant trauma to both his cervical and lumbar spine. Diagnostic imaging revealed:
- Posterior disc herniations at C3–C4, C4–C5, C5–C6, and C6–C7, with impingement and neuroforaminal encroachment
- Additional disc herniations at L1–L2, L2–L3, L3–L4, L5–S1, causing central canal and bilateral neuroforaminal narrowing
Conservative chiropractic care and pain management failed, and both MRI and discogram studies confirmed the need for surgery. In July 2024, the client underwent a two-level lumbar fusion at L4–L5 and L5–S1, combined with a laminectomy for canal decompression and placement of an interbody biomechanical device. He continues to experience chronic pain and lasting limitations in his ability to work and perform daily tasks.
Substantial Financial Losses and Medical Costs
The client’s injuries left him unable to return to work in the same capacity as before the crash. He has a life expectancy of 25.5 years, meaning long-term medical needs and limitations will continue to affect his earning capacity. His out-of-pocket medical expenses, beyond exhausted PIP coverage, totaled $430,942.64, including surgery center fees, imaging, and specialist care.
Strong Case Preparation Leads to Settlement
With clear liability, extensive medical documentation, and permanent spinal injury, Glugeth & Pierguidi prepared the case for mediation with a settlement demand of $2.5 million. Although the commercial driver fled the scene, the firm was able to assemble a complete liability and damages presentation through police records, toll and GPS evidence, medical imaging, surgical reports, and expert analyses.
The matter was ultimately resolved for a $900,000 settlement, ensuring the client has the financial support necessary for ongoing medical care and long-term stability.
Glugeth & Pierguidi continues to represent victims of catastrophic injuries, hit-and-run crashes, and commercial vehicle accidents throughout New Jersey and New York.
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Media Contact
David Pierguidi
5 River St, Suite 303 Hoboken, NJ 07030
david@njnylawyers.com
