What do injury lawyers consider a decent settlement when it comes to personal injury? Settling just shy of $200,000 in small claims court certainly is not small change. Last August, the Ohio Court of Claims approved a $185,000 settlement to James Webb for injuries he suffered in a fall during a patient pick-up at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center’s University Hospital, according to a recent report in Court News Ohio.
After receiving treatment at the main branch of the hospital, Webb stood by a bench near a valet stand. The bench was located behind a step that was not clearly marked, according to his complaint. Webb did not see the step and fell. He suffered a fractured femur, a cut on his head, and a subdural hematoma, which is a swelling under the skin. As a result, Webb required medical treatment.
No Further Claims to Be Filed, Hospital Denies Liability
In exchange for the money, Webb agreed not to file any future claims at the hospital.
Despite the settlement, the medical center refused to admit liability.
Under injury law in Cincinnati and Ohio, the Court of Claims has original jurisdiction for all civil actions filed against the State of Ohio and its agencies.