Angry Driver Causes Auto Injury by Forcefully Hitting a Parked Car

April 27, 2010

The Story

Misty Lee Rummel was followed and hit by an enraged driver, while parked in a Sweetbay parking lot on Mariner Boulevard. Hernando County authorities report Rummel, 35, was tailed by Gail Sievers.

News sources report Rummel yelling at Sievers for not stopping at a stop sign in the area, as the source for Sievers’ rage. Sievers squealed her tires and chased the victim for many blocks, until Rummel pulled into the Sweetbay parking lot.

According to an arrest report, Rummel dialed 911, Sievers’ GMC pickup slammed into her vehicle. Rummel reported Sievers unconscious after the accident, and tried to give her medical attention before the paramedics arrived. Both women showed minor injuries and were taken to Oak Hill Hospital.

Authorities report no signs Sievers was drunk, but she may have been taking prescribed opiates. Sievers had been indicted in a suspected road rage accident earlier that afternoon in Hernando County Circuit Court.

Reckless Behavior

When drivers act with such blatant disregard for the safety of others or intentionally attempt to injure someone with the use of their vehicle, most times law enforcement will act to arrest and prosecute.  However, the criminal justice system is limited in what financial restitution is available to a victim, in the case of auto injury.  For instance, only the civil court system is available to award damages for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and mental anguish.  Further, when negligent behavior rises to the level of intentional or reckless behavior, the civil court system is also available to punish the party by awarding punitive damages. 

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages allow a Judge or Jury to award money in excess of medical bills, wages, or pain and suffering.  The Judge or Jury can also award money to the injured party to punish the person causing the injury.  Such punitive claims can also have a real impact on how insurance companies evaluate and defend cases. 

If you or someone you know has been injured by another's reckless behavior, contact the Lowman Law Firm for a FREE CONSULTATION and explanation of your legal rights.  We are available by phone, email, or text and you will speak directy with an auto accident attorney in Brooksville, and not the legal assistant, case manager, or investigator.  Contact us today.