$43 Million Broward Verdict for Couple Left in Comas by Drunk Driver

Four days before Christmas 2019, Steadman Haase, 67, and his wife Eileen, 72, were driving on Rock Island Road in Lauderhill when a car driven by 18-year-old John Henry Roberson III crossed the median and became airborne, landing on top of their vehicle and crushing it. Both were trapped in the wreckage.

Steadman was airlifted to a trauma center. He remained in a coma for nearly two months, underwent multiple surgeries, and had to relearn to walk. He continues to manage chronic pain from fractured ribs, internal bleeding, multiple leg fractures, and a shattered foot. Eileen sustained severe crush injuries to both hands, leaving her unable to perform basic daily tasks for months.

The couple's recovery was made harder by the timing. The crash fell at the onset of COVID-19, and the hospital discharged both patients early due to pandemic protocols. Eileen, still recovering from her own injuries and without the full use of her hands, was left to care for her incapacitated husband at home.

Roberson did not contest liability, and a default was entered against him. The case proceeded to a damages-only trial before a Broward County jury. Amanda Demanda Injury Lawyers, led by founder Amanda Demanda, tried the case as co-counsel alongside Michael D. Redondo of Redondo Law, P.A. Jurors heard testimony about the severity of the injuries, the prolonged hospitalizations, the lasting physical limitations, and the toll the accident took on both spouses.

The jury returned a $43 million verdict on July 20, 2023. According to the Daily Business Review, the courtroom was visibly moved during closing arguments, with observers noting that even jurors showed emotion. No appeal or remittitur reducing the award has been publicly reported.