Trial Magazine

Charles Jacobus, 55, was attempting to cross a street to catch a bus when an SUV driven by Shayla Randle struck him. Randle, a teenager, had obtained her license the previous day. Jacobus suffered multiple fractures and a frontal lobe injury.

Jacobus spent 58 days in the hospital and now has partial vision loss and speech difficulties. A store cashier earning approximately $20,000 annually, he has not returned to work.

Jacobus sued Randle, alleging she failed to control her vehicle, drive in a safe manner, keep a proper lookout, and obey Florida traffic laws. Suit also alleged that the vehicle’s owner, Randle’s mother, was liable for negligent entrustment.

The jury awarded $8.2 million.

Citation: Jacobus v. Randle, Undisclosed Dkt. No. (Fla. Cir. Ct. Palm Beach Cnty. Sept. 24, 2019).

Plaintiff counsel: AAJ members Brian LaBovick and Peter Hunt, both of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.