After a truck driver broke down in the middle of a Texas Interstate, a 24-year-old son was involved in an accident that resulted in his death. Recently, the family of the deceased was awarded nearly $4M as compensation for their loss.
The court proceedings took nearly three years to conclude, even though the accident took place in September 2021.
Robert Buntyn, a 24-year-old, was on his way home from work at his family’s mortuary business when he crashed into the back of a stationary commercial vehicle on Interstate 635 near State Highway 121. It is believed that he hit something on the road before the accident occurred, which led to his unfortunate demise.
According to the Buntyn family attorneys, 23-year-old Desiree Boyd, who was employed by Newkirk Logistics as a truck driver, neglected to inform other drivers that she had stopped. Additionally, she did not make use of hazard lights, flares, or triangles, and did not pull over to the side of the road.
According to the jury’s decision, the accident was primarily caused by Newkirk Logistics and Boyd, with Buntyn being found only 10% at fault. As a result, the Boys family was granted a total of $3.6 million in damages. Although the lawyers representing Boyd and Newkirk have expressed their intention to appeal the decision, the ruling currently stands.
According to the Buntyn family, they were compelled to go to trial by the attorneys representing Newkirk Logistics and Boyd.
Bryan Buntyn revealed to WFAA that they had offered the insurance policy settlement six times, which amounted to $1 million. The intention was to avoid a trial and spare everyone the hassle. However, the other party declined the settlement offer. Despite having the same evidence presented in court, the insurance company and their lawyers still opted not to settle, which was surprising. Currently, they are appealing the case.
According to Buntyn, it seemed like a challenge as if they were daring them to go to trial. He believed that these corporations should not force families to go through a long and tedious process of settling a case and seeking accountability. For Buntyn, it was never about the money, but rather about holding someone responsible for what they did to his loved one.
