MOTOR VEHICLE

PINELLAS CIRCUIT COURT

A jury awarded a modern abstract artist more than $4 million for injuries suffered in a car accident when he claimed affected his ability to paint.

In 2014, Christopher Sullivan, who was in his 40s, was riding in a car driven by Neil Pickrem. They were heading south on Third Street North in Pinellas County. At 43rd Avenue North, another vehicle broadsided them. Sullivan alleged Pickrem ran a stop sign. With support from medical experts, Sullivan claimed he suffered damage to spinal discs, a shoulder cartilage tear and a mild traumatic brain injury causing cognitive deficits. He asserted had to learn to paint with his nondominant left hand.

The defense challenged Sullivan's injuries. The jury awarded Sullivan nearly $4.3 million.

Case: Sullivan v. Pickrem

Case No.: 16-005542-CI

Plaintiffs attorneys: Lisha Bowen, Lisha Bowen P.A., Tampa; Marc Matthews and Medisa Memic, McIntyre Thanasides Bringgold Elliott Grimaldi Guito & Matthews, Tampa and Sarasota

Defense attorneys: Terry L. Kors and Andrew J. Lewis, Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, Tampa