DELIVERYMAN AWARDED $650,000 DAMAGES AGAINST HARDMAN SUPPLY

(07/30/2006)
A man delivering timber trusses to Hardman Supply Company in Grantsville has been awarded $657,000 damages following a three day civil trial in Grantsville.

One or more trusses reportedly fell on the man during unloading, severely injuring his leg or ankle.

The jury awarded David E. Thomas of Weston past damages related to his medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages and "loss of enjoyment of life and inconvenience," in the amount of $340,000.

Thomas was delivering the trusses from Babcock Truss in Glenville.

Future damage amounts included $25,000 for medical expenses, $150,000 for pain and suffering and $100,000 for lost income, plus an additional $7,000 for "loss of enjoyment of life and inconvenience." Thomas' wife Debra was awarded $35,000 "damages for loss of spousal consortium"

The award was among the highest ever given in a damage suit locally.

The verdict found Hardman Supply negligent related to Thomas' injuries, although the jury determined Thomas was guilty himself of contributory negligence, ruling that Hardman Supply was 65% responsible and Thomas was 35% responsible.

Judge David Nibert presided, the trial ended on July 20.