Tampa, FL – A Hillsborough County jury awarded a $56 million verdict to a mechanic and his wife following a catastrophic workplace accident that left him permanently disabled. The verdict, delivered after a civil jury trial, holds the defendants accountable for their negligence, which led to Antonio’s life-altering injuries

The incident occurred when the plaintiff, a skilled mechanic, was called to a parking lot to perform a transmission repair on a commercial dump truck. While he was working beneath the vehicle, the defendants negligently started the truck, causing it to lurch forward. The immense weight of the truck crushed Antonio, breaking both of his legs and damaging his optic nerve, ultimately resulting in the loss of his left leg and permanent blindness.

The jury’s decision reflects the devastating impact of the defendants’ actions on Antonio and his family. The $56 million award includes damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the emotional and financial toll placed on Antonio’s wife as his primary caregiver.

“This verdict is a powerful statement that negligence has a profound impact on human life,” said Joseph Abdallah, lead attorney for Antonio and his wife. “Antonio’s life was forever changed by this preventable tragedy, and this jury’s decision represents the health that was taken from Antonio and his wife.”

Antonio and his wife expressed their gratitude for the jury’s decision, emphasizing their hope that the case will raise awareness about workplace safety.