Case Background
This case came from a crash in New Haven on October 28, 2021. Calvin Tillman, a bus operator for CT Transit, stopped his vehicle in traffic on Columbus Avenue when a speeding car slammed into the back of the bus and then sped away. The driver never came forward, and police could not identify the car or its owner.
Tillman claimed injuries and turned to his employer’s insurance coverage, held by Travelers Constitution State Insurance Company, for uninsured motorist benefits. His lawsuit alleged that the crash left him with lasting pain, medical expenses, and lost income.
Cause
Tillman said the accident occurred when an unidentified driver failed to slow down or maintain distance and struck his bus from behind. Because the driver fled, state law classified the incident as an uninsured motorist claim.
Injury
Tillman reported injuries to his neck, back, and shoulders. Medical records showed sprains and strains to his cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine, along with bilateral shoulder pain. He said these injuries caused ongoing pain, limited mobility, and emotional distress.
Damages
Tillman sought compensation for his medical bills, lost wages, and future treatment. He also claimed damages for emotional suffering, anxiety, and disruption of daily life. The initial demand in court filings exceeded $15,000.
Legal Representation
Plaintiff(s): Calvin Tillman ·
Counsel for Plaintiff(s): Daniel Petroskey
Defendant(s): Travelers Constitution State Insurance Company | H.N.S. Management Company, Inc. d/b/a CT Transit ·
Counsel for Defendant(s): Bethany B. Karas
Key Arguments and Proceedings
Plaintiff’s Claims
Tillman, through his attorney, argued that the crash directly caused his injuries. He maintained that the unknown driver’s negligence left him entitled to uninsured motorist benefits under his employer’s policy with Travelers. He also stressed that his injuries were consistent with the impact and that medical records supported his account.
Defendant’s Position
Travelers and CT Transit, represented by defense counsel, admitted some background facts but denied responsibility for the claimed damages. They asserted several special defenses. First, they argued that the State’s uninsured motorist coverage capped recovery at $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. Second, they sought credits or reductions for any workers’ compensation or other insurance benefits Tillman may have received. Third, they contended that any award should be reduced by payments made to other passengers involved in the incident.
Jury Verdict
On September 17, 2024, the jury sided with Calvin Tillman. They found him entitled to recover damages from CT Transit’s insurance coverage. The panel awarded $8900.81 in total economic damages, which included medical bills and lost wages. The jury then award $ 6550 separately on noneconomic damages for pain and suffering. The total amount awarded by the jury was $15,450.81. This verdict gave Tillman compensation for his financial losses while reflecting the insurance coverage limits raised during trial.
