Police Officer Awarded $7.1 Million in Breach of Contract Case
When a party signs a contract, they expect that everyone involved will comply. However, that is not always the case. A party may refuse to fulfill their obligations, resulting in a breach of contract.
This is what recently happened in Florida. A police officer was entitled to benefits after being involved in a catastrophic car accident. Finally, after 22 years of litigation with the city, the man was awarded $7.1 million.
The former Lake Worth police officer was responding to an emergency call in 2001 when he got T-boned by a car. He suffered severe injuries that ended his career. The city of Lake Worth declared him catastrophically injured.
The man suffered various injuries to his spine, neck, knees, hips, and shoulders. He struggles with severe nerve damage and paralysis. He was entitled to health insurance benefits, but the city refused to give them to him.
By law, he was supposed to be awarded a basic health insurance plan as well as medical, dental, and vision benefits. He was supposed to receive all the benefits that are at least equal to the benefits given to the HR director. Instead, the man got nothing and he filed lawsuits against the city of Lake Worth to get his benefits.
The jury agreed that the man should get what he deserved. They handed down a $7.1 million verdict. However, the city is not happy with this decision and plans to appeal it.
The police officer and his wife are grateful that the fight is over for now and they will receive the necessary compensation to provide for the man’s medical care.
What is a Breach of Contract?
A breach of contract is a failure to perform any promise outlined in a contract. The exception would be anything outlined in the contract (such as delays due to weather conditions) or anything that is illegal.
To claim a breach of contract, the following questions must be answered:
- Did a contract exist? If not, then there is no breach.
- What did the contract require?
- Was the contract modified at any point?
- Did a breach of contract occur?
- Was the breach material to the contract?
- Does the party who allegedly breached the contract have a legal defense?
- What damages were caused by the breach?
A breach can be minor or material, depending on the parties’ obligations. A breach is material if the other party receives something substantially different from what the contract specified. A breach is minor if the other party still receives the item or service specified in the contract, but perhaps it is a day late.
Contact a Breach of Contract Lawyer Today
Certain workers, such as police officers, are entitled to insurance and retirement benefits after working for a period of time. When they don’t receive these benefits, it may be considered a breach of contract.
A Bradenton breach of contract lawyer from Cahall Law Firm can give you sound legal advice and advocate for your legal rights. Fill out the online form or call our office at (941) 281-2019 to schedule a free consultation.
Source:
wpbf.com/article/florida-lake-worth-joseph-viera-police-lawsuit/44869789#
