DISCLAIMER: Please note that every case is different and these verdicts and settlements, while accurate, do not represent what we may obtain for you in your case.

$170,000.00 Settlement for Balloon Crash

In early 2002, Christine Zoltowski attended a hospital fundraiser at which she bid on and won a hot air balloon excursion. When Christine and her husband arrived to claim their prize, the balloon operator told them that it was too windy to fly that day at that location. He suggested that they drive to another launch site where the operator checked conditions and told the Zoltowskis it would be safe to take off. The Zoltowskis accepted the operator’s word even though they could see dark clouds in the distance. Shortly after their flight began, the weather conditions deteriorated drastically, and the operator lost control of the balloon. The Zoltowskis were terrified as the balloon smashed through trees, crash-landed and ejected the couple from the passenger basket. Ms. Zoltowski suffered a sever ankle fracture, which will require two surgeries. Mr. Zoltowski was also injured, but made a full recovery. The trauma of their plunge and crash will have lasting effects on the couple.

Following this incident, the Zoltowskis hired Michael F. Hupy & Associates, S.C. to represent them. Attorney Jason F. Abraham was confident that he would be able to show that the balloon operator had put their lives in jeopardy by launching in weather conditions he knew to be perilous. After discussions with the Federal Aviation Administration, witnesses to the accident and investigators, Attorney Abraham was able to demonstrate to the insurance company that the operator was negligent and responsible for the Zoltowskis’ injuries. Attorney Abraham negotiated a $170,000.00 settlement on their behalf.

Awarded: $170,000.00