Settlements & Verdicts
David Crossan v. Kaolin Mushroom Farms
1/5/2004—In January 2002, the Philadelphia Court of Common
Pleas issued an order finalizing settlement negotiations between motorcyclist
David Crossan and Kaolin Mushroom Farms. Mr. Crossan’s attorney, Joseph L. Messa,
Jr., explained that his client was riding his motorcycle when he was struck by
a truck owned by Kaolin Mushroom Farms and driven by Michael Townsend. Plaintiff
Crossan had the right of way as he entered an intersection. Mr. Townsend failed
to stop at a stop sign at the intersection. The collision of the vehicles knocked
Mr. Crossan off his motorcycle, into the truck and then to the ground.
Mr. Crossan’s injuries included head trauma resulting in a skull fracture with
epidural and subdural bleeding, and multiple fractures of the pelvis and face.
Three days after the accident, Mr. Crossan underwent a craniotomy, an evacuation
of the epidural hematoma, and internal fixation of his pelvic and facial injuries.
He was also put on a ventilator as a result of respiratory failure, but was eventually
taken off the device. He still suffers from cognitive dysfunction and speech
irregularities and must use a cane to walk. He lives with and is cared for by
his parents. The most important thing is that there are now sufficient funds
to take care of the plaintiff for the rest of his life, said his attorney, Joseph
L. Messa, Jr.
