Judge Converts $59.8 Million Verdict into $60 Million Judgment

Armando Guerrero III vs. Nydia Pena is among the most discussed drunk driving cases in recent times. Tried in Bexar County, the case is back in the news for a San Antonio judge converts $59.8 million verdict into $60 million judgment.

The ruling sends a big message to Texas and other states. The difference between the two amounts might not be major but it shows that judges have the power to change verdicts.

The new amount includes pre-judgment interest. Moreover, this new judgment can’t be dismissed by bankruptcy due to the nature of the case.

More About the Case

The case dates back to 2016 when Nydia Pena, who admitted to being intoxicated at that time, crashed into a vehicle after running a red light on Southwest Military Drive in San Antonio, Texas.

The collision caused major injuries to the passenger in the other vehicle, identified as Armando Guerrero, 23, who had to undergo multiple surgeries to fix his back and facial bones.

According to reports, Pena was speeding – going above 78 in a 40 mph zone. She said that her baby, sitting in the backseat, proved to be a distraction, which caused her to hit the vehicle.

The jury took about three hours to deliberate the case. The amount includes $7.5 million for pain and suffering, $0.55 million for disfigurement, $1.625 million for impairment, $0.81 million for medical expenses, and $50 million in punitive damages. This equals to $59.8 million; however, the amount will go a little above $60 million with pre-judgment interest.

This and many other such cases highlight the importance of knowing your rights and hiring the right legal help to get your rightful share if you have been involved in a road accident.