Fermin Salguero-Quijada v. Norguard Insurance

Summary

In this bad-faith insurance case, Fermin Salguero-Quijada allegedly suffered a traumatic brain injury after falling from a ladder. Salguero-Quijada sues Norguard Insurance, claiming that the company failed to cover inpatient rehab care.

Sean Claggett, representing Salguero-Quijada, argues that he had been steadily improving until Norguard refused to pay for his care. This, according to Claggett, led to Salguero-Quijada being forced to fly home and receive care from his family, stunting his neurological recovery.

Attorneys for Norguard argue that Norguard made payments for Salguero-Quijada despite questions about eligibility at the time. Norguard highlights how Salguero-Quijada will continue to receive benefits for the rest of his life, and asserts that his permanent injuries are due to the severity of the initial accident and not delays in treatment.

Outcome

Verdict for plaintiff.
Total damages: $145.26 million
Including $85.26 million in compensatory damages and $60 million in punitive damages.