Case Background
This case arose from a motor vehicle collision that took place on an I-84 off-ramp. The Plaintiff, Josephine Jenkins, claimed that the Defendant, Christoph Bredahl, suddenly and without warning backed his car into her vehicle. She alleged that the crash caused a violent impact, which left her with numerous injuries.
The vehicle Christoph Bredahl drove belonged to his co-Defendant and family member, Steven Bredahl. Jenkins argued that Christoph operated Steven’s car recklessly and that both Defendants bore responsibility for her injuries and financial losses.
The lawsuit began in early 2020, and after years of legal arguments, discovery, and expert testimony, the matter went to trial. In October 2024, the jury delivered its verdict.
Cause
Jenkins claimed that Christoph Bredahl backed up on the off-ramp in violation of Connecticut traffic laws and basic safety rules, causing the collision. She accused him of failing to keep a proper lookout, failing to control his car, and even using a cell phone while driving.
The defense, however, denied negligence. They argued that Jenkins herself failed to keep a proper lookout, followed too closely, and did not take reasonable steps to avoid the collision.
Injury
Jenkins stated that the crash caused or worsened several serious injuries. She listed a concussion, memory loss, and vision problems, along with sprains in her neck and back. She also reported chronic pain in her right elbow diagnosed as epicondylitis, ongoing headaches, difficulty sleeping, and anxiety.
She said these injuries limited her ability to work and perform everyday activities. Her doctors linked her symptoms to the collision, and she claimed the harm was long-lasting and, in some ways, permanent.
Damages
Jenkins sought damages for medical bills, therapy, and specialist evaluations ranging from neurology to ophthalmology. She claimed she needed continued treatment and would face ongoing medical costs in the future.
She also argued that her earning ability was impaired and that she suffered a loss of enjoyment of life. The complaint placed her demand at not less than $15,000, but the total request reached much higher once pain, suffering, and future care were added.
Legal Representation
Plaintiff(s): Josephine Jenkins
· Counsel for Plaintiff(s): Brian V. Altieri
· Experts for Plaintiff(s): Cara Pittari | Susan Stanton | Megan S. Young | James S. Batti | Gary M. Crakes | Anthony F. Campagna | Michelle A. Brisman
Defendant(s): Christoph Bredahl | Steven Bredahl
· Counsel for Defendant(s): Daniel E. Buley
· Experts for Defendant(s): Stephen R. Conway | Franklin C. Brown | Jonathan Woodhouse
Key Arguments and Proceedings
Plaintiff’s Position
Jenkins’ legal team painted a picture of a sudden, unexpected collision caused by Christoph Bredahl’s unsafe decision to back his vehicle on a busy highway ramp. They argued that no reasonable driver would have moved in reverse in that situation and that Christoph’s actions violated state traffic laws designed to prevent exactly this kind of crash.
They further stressed that Jenkins’ injuries were well-documented by medical professionals and that the timing tied them directly to the accident. The Plaintiff’s counsel urged the jury to hold both Christoph and Steven Bredahl responsible for the harm.
Defense’s Position
The defense countered that Jenkins bore the blame for the accident. Their special defenses claimed she had not been attentive, had followed too closely, and failed to brake or sound her horn when she had the chance. They argued she misused her senses and did not exercise reasonable caution under the circumstances.
By casting doubt on Jenkins’ version of events and pointing to her alleged negligence, the defense asked the jury to clear their clients of liability.
Jury Verdict
After hearing all the testimony and reviewing the evidence, the jury sided with the Defendants. On October 11, 2024, the jury returned a verdict in favor of Christoph and Steven Bredahl. They found against Jenkins and awarded her no damages.
The decision marked the end of a four-year legal battle. While Jenkins brought forward strong claims and extensive medical testimony, the jury ultimately believed that the Defendants were not legally responsible for her injuries.
