$3,250,000 Settlement – Inadequate Security Case: Shooting Resulted in Paraplegia (Broward County, FL)

Florida relishes its position of being a destination for visitors of all kinds, including foreign students from Europe. A young man visiting from Italy was shot and paralyzed when thieves attempted to steal his rental car.  Attorney John Elliott Leighton represented this man and filed suit on his behalf, alleging that a failure to provide reasonable security caused his robbery and shooting.  His trip to the United States as a foreign language student was a graduation gift from his parents.  Mr. Leighton mapped out a strategy for the case, including the depositions of witnesses, employees and agents.  He was able to obtain testimony that was favorable to his case theory and was heading toward a trial.  A confidential settlement of $3,250,000 was obtained shortly before trial after Leighton proved that the area was dangerously unsafe and reasonable security was lacking at the apartment complex where the young man was shot.

Our client went on to become an accomplished sailor who pioneered creation of disabled sailing.  He created Wheels on Waves, which affords the disabled an opportunity to sail.  He has taken this terrible tragedy and turned it into an international calling to benefit many disabled sailors. He is a testament to those who do not let their disabilities keep them from living their lives.  Hopefully this kind of litigation helps to make the state a safer place for tourists and residents alike by increasing security.

Disclaimer: The information about past verdicts and settlements of the firm’s cases are based on the unique facts of each case. These amounts reflect the gross recovery in each case (before attorneys fees, expenses and medical costs are deducted). Although these results were obtained by our firm, they may not indicate the success or value of any other case. By clicking on Verdicts and Settlements you are acknowledging that each case is unique and must be evaluated on its own merits. The information contained here has not been reviewed or approved by The Florida Bar.