Electrocution Injury Jury Verdict: $4.8M Award for Traumatic Brain Injuries from Unchecked Power Lines

In a groundbreaking verdict, a jury awarded nearly $4.8 million in damages to Heydi Velez and others who suffered traumatic brain injuries after an unchecked power line from Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) caused a devastating electrocution incident.

The Case: Heydi Velez et al. v. Florida Power & Light Company

The Court: Circuit Court for Miami-Dade County

The Case No.: 17-022854-CA-21

The Plaintiff: Heydi Velez et al. v. Florida Power & Light Company

Heydi Velez and her co-plaintiffs, who experienced severe injuries including traumatic brain injury, PTSD, migraines, panic attacks, anxiety, and cognitive impairment, claim that FPL’s negligence led to an avoidable electrocution accident. The plaintiffs allege that a faulty, unchecked power line resulted in a dangerous situation where a 57-year-old individual was electrocuted while leaning on a metal fence in contact with water, ultimately causing extensive long-term health issues.

Did FPL's Power Line Maintenance Policies Create an Unsafe Environment?

Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) policies and preventive measures regarding power line maintenance are at the heart of the litigation. The plaintiffs allege that FPL failed to maintain a safe electrical infrastructure and that the failure led directly to the incident. Allegedly, FPL's oversight created a dangerous environment and failed to protect its own workers and customers.

Jury Verdict Following a Rigorous Trial with Multiple Experts & Extensive Evidence

Following a rigorous trial featuring multiple expert testimonies and extensive evidence, the jury delivered a verdict awarding $4,847,000 in damages. This decision is expected to serve as a critical precedent, highlighting the importance of strict adherence to safety regulations and the severe consequences of neglect by utility companies. The appeal process is underway at the Third District Court of Appeal under Case No. 3D22-181, as FPL seeks to challenge the ruling.

What Can You Do If You Suffer from Traumatic Injuries Due to Negligence?

If you or a loved one has suffered traumatic injuries caused by negligent maintenance or unsafe conditions, it is important to document your experience, gather evidence, and seek expert legal advice as soon as possible.

If you need to discuss filing a wrongful death lawsuit or traumatic brain injury claim, reach out to Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik DeBlouw LLP. Experienced and knowledgeable wrongful death attorneys are ready to assist you at one of their various law firm offices in Riverside, San Francisco, Sacramento, San Diego, Los Angeles, and Chicago.