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VERDICT WIN: $18.7 MILLION VERDICT FOR BRYAN WILLIAMS
Witherite Law Group is proud to announce a major legal victory, securing an $18.7 million verdict at Tarrant County’s 96th District Court in front of Judge Patrick Gallagher. Attorneys Jibraeel Zaidi and Rabia Said led the trial, and delivered justice for Bryan Williams, who suffered life-altering injuries after being struck by a drunk driver.
The Case
Bryan Williams, 22, was walking home when he was run over by a 19-year-old intoxicated driver leaving Whiskey Garden in Fort Worth. The defendant lost control of his pickup truck, struck Bryan, and then crashed into a light pole. At the scene, he attempted to conceal evidence and lied to the police where he had been and how much he had been drinking. A blood test later revealed his BAC was 0.15, nearly twice the legal limit.
Despite overwhelming evidence – including police bodycam footage and eyewitness testimony – the defendant refused to admit he hit Bryan. His legal team attempted to shift blame, arguing that Bryan was negligent for walking on a dimly lit road while wearing Airpods. The jury ultimately assigned 10 percent responsibility to Bryan.
Trial Strategy and Presentation
Jibraeel Zaidi and Rabia Said built an ironclad case, utilizing:
- Medical animations to illustrate the severity of Bryan’s injuries
- On-site visits and family interviews to document Bryan’s journey to recovery
- Expert testimony from Nurse Leigh Anne Levy, outlining the extensive long-term care Bryan will require
- Bodycam footage proving the defendant attempted to cover up his involvement
Before trial, State Farm refused to settle, offering only $70,000 on a $50,000 policy, despite Bryan’s catastrophic injuries. The jury, however, saw the full extent of his suffering and awarded:
- Past and future medical costs: $1.25 million
- Pain and suffering: $10.5 million
- Impairment and disfigurement: $4.35 million
- Mental anguish: $2.5 million
- Punitive damages: $105,622
A Masterful Trial
Jibraeel’s voir dire, opening, and closing arguments were instrumental in securing this result. His presentation was clear, compelling, and deeply impactful, leaving a lasting impression on the jury. His ability to connect with jurors, present evidence seamlessly, and advocate for Bryan with genuine passion was widely recognized throughout the trial.
Despite defense counsel’s attempts to mislead the jury by cherry picking records, the truth prevailed. Jurors saw the extent of Bryan’s suffering, his strength in recovering, and the clear responsibility of the defendant.
Justice Delivered
This $18.7 million verdict reflects the power of thorough preparation, skilled advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to justice. More than just a legal victory, this case is a testament to how Witherite Law Group attorneys embody our core mission: People First, Expertise Matters, and Integrity Always.
- People First: Jib, Rabia, and their teams went beyond the courtroom, getting to know Bryan’s story, his struggles, and his resilience. Their dedication ensured he was seen as more than just a case; he was a person who deserved justice.
- Expertise Matters: From strategic trial preparation to compelling evidence presentation, our attorneys leveraged every tool at their disposal to fight for the best possible outcome.
- Integrity Always: Despite defense tactics aimed at shifting blame, our team remained steadfast in presenting the truth, proving the depth of Bryan’s injuries and the defendant’s responsibility.
This case is a powerful reminder that when skill, strategy, and unwavering commitment come together. Justice is served. Witherite Law Group will continue to stick up for those who need it most – because we keep people first. Expertise on your team.