$29 Million Verdict in Cyclist Injury Case

In a tragic 2022 accident at an intersection in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, Heath Wilson, a 51-year-old cyclist, was struck by a truck operated by JM Lapp Plumbing and Heating LLC. The impact hurled him 25 feet, resulting in catastrophic injuries, including a brain injury and the loss of his spleen. Wilson fell into a prolonged coma and now requires permanent assisted living care, having lost the ability to work, care for himself, or live independently.

Prior to the accident, Wilson was a vibrant athlete and a dedicated VA hospital nurse. His legal counsel described him as someone who "lived his life to the fullest," highlighting the devastating consequences of the incident on both his personal and professional life.

The Trial and Verdict

A jury in the Chester County Court of Common Pleas found JM Lapp Plumbing 85% liable for the accident, with Wilson deemed 15% comparatively negligent. The jury awarded Wilson a total of $29 million, broken down as follows:

• $954,961 for past medical expenses
• $9,898,784 for future medical expenses
• $257,863 for lost wages
• $1,933,677 for future loss of earnings
• $4 million for pain and suffering
• $4 million for loss of enjoyment of life
• $4 million for embarrassment and humiliation
• $4 million for disfigurement

JM Lapp Plumbing had initially offered a pretrial settlement of $500,000, which was rejected by the plaintiff. The plaintiff's counsel revealed that negotiations with JM Lapp's insurer were unproductive, as the company refused to offer a figure within their policy limits.

Statements from Counsel

Morgan & Morgan, representing Wilson, emphasized the life-altering consequences of the accident. John Morgan, founder of the firm, remarked:

"This verdict will allow [Wilson] to continue to receive the utmost care he needs and deserves, and we are pleased that we were able to win justice for him and his family."

An attorney for JM Lapp Plumbing declined to comment when approached.

The Law Firms Involved

• Heath Wilson was represented by Morgan & Morgan, known for their extensive experience in personal injury litigation.
• JM Lapp Plumbing was represented by Weber Gallagher Simpson Stapleton Fires & Newby LLP, a firm specializing in defense litigation.

Potential Impact of the Verdict

This substantial award underscores the accountability companies face in ensuring the safe operation of their vehicles. Beyond compensating Wilson for his extensive damages, the verdict sends a clear message about the importance of corporate responsibility in mitigating risks to public safety.

The case, filed as Heath v. Beiler et al., highlights the legal recourse available to individuals suffering life-altering injuries due to corporate negligence. While JM Lapp Plumbing's next steps remain unclear, the verdict stands as a significant legal and moral victory for the plaintiff.