Case Overview
Mary Benz filed a personal injury lawsuit against Maryellen Travis in the Connecticut Superior Court on September 25, 2023. The court assigned a return date of October 31, 2023. The incident took place on June 9, 2022, on Federal Road in Danbury, Connecticut. Both drivers traveled northbound when Travis, operating a 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350, rear-ended Benz’s 2020 Audi Q5 Premium. Benz pursued legal action, alleging negligence and statutory violations.
Cause of the Collision
Benz claimed that Travis followed too closely and lost control of her vehicle. She alleged that Travis failed to brake or steer in time to avoid the crash. Benz also accused her of driving inattentively and giving no warning before the impact. She cited a violation of Connecticut General Statutes §14-240d(2), which governs unsafe following distances, asserting that these actions directly caused the collision and her resulting injuries.
Injuries and Impact
The crash injured Benz’s neck and back, leaving her with persistent pain and reduced mobility. Medical professionals evaluated her condition and concluded that some injuries could be permanent. Benz described emotional and physical suffering, stating that the injuries limited her daily activities. She continued to receive treatment and anticipated that her condition would persist or worsen over time, diminishing her quality of life.
Damages Sought
Benz sought compensatory damages for her injuries and related medical costs. She reported significant expenses for hospital visits, medication, and ongoing care, and anticipated future medical needs. She also requested reimbursement for legal expenses. The complaint valued her total damages at over $15,000 and asked the court to grant any additional relief it found appropriate.
Key Arguments and Proceedings
Legal Representation
Plaintiff: Mary Benz
Counsel for Plaintiff: Daniel Stephen DiBartolomeo
Defendant: Maryellen Travis
Counsel for Defendant: Joseph M. Ferrantelli
Claims and Allegations
Negligence and Unsafe Driving
Maryellen Travis allegedly caused the rear-end collision on June 9, 2022, by operating her 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK 350 negligently. According to the complaint, she failed to slow down or stop in time, striking the rear of Mary Benz’s 2020 Audi Q5 Premium. Benz claimed that Travis violated Connecticut General Statutes §14-240d(2) by following too closely, failing to maintain control of her vehicle, and neglecting to apply the brakes appropriately.
The complaint further alleged that Travis drove inattentively and failed to warn of her approach, directly contributing to the collision and forming the basis of the negligence claim.
Permanent Injury and Pain
Benz claimed the crash caused significant injuries to her neck and back. Medical evaluations suggested that some of these injuries could be permanent and would require ongoing treatment. She asserted that the injuries resulted in chronic pain, limited her daily activities, and negatively impacted her physical and emotional well-being.
Compensatory Damages
Benz sought compensatory damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and the loss of enjoyment of life. She also requested reimbursement for legal fees and other costs associated with the crash.
Legal Costs
The plaintiff asked the court to award coverage for litigation-related expenses, including attorney’s fees, filing costs, and potential future legal actions tied to her medical care.
Defense Position
Maryellen Travis admitted to operating the vehicle involved in the incident but denied all allegations of negligence. She rejected claims that she failed to slow, stop, or control her vehicle and stated that she lacked sufficient information to address many of the plaintiff’s assertions. As a result, she placed the burden of proof on the plaintiff. Travis also denied causing the plaintiff’s injuries and maintained that she acted with reasonable care throughout the incident.
Jury Verdict
On April 2, 2025, the jury found in favor of the defendant, Maryellen Travis. After evaluating the evidence, the jury concluded that Travis was not negligent in the 2022 rear-end collision involving Mary Benz. The court awarded no damages to the plaintiff and entered judgment for the defense, releasing Travis from all liability in the case.
Court Documents:
Court documents are available for purchase upon request at [email protected]
