Branham v. Division of Highways

This claim was submitted to the Court for decision upon a Stipulation entered into by Claimants and Respondent wherein certain facts and circumstances of the claim were agreed to as follows:

1. At approximately 9:00 p.m. on July 31, 2009, Peggy H. Branham was driving Claimants’ 2002 Lincoln on County Route 65/5 inDelbarton, Mingo County, when their vehicle struck a broken section of the berm.

2. Respondent is responsible for the maintenance of this area which it failed to maintain properly on the date of this incident.

3. As a result, Claimants’ vehicle sustained damage to its tire and rim in the amount of $491.84. Claimants’ insurance deductible was $1,000.00.

4. Respondent agrees that the amount of $491.84 for the damages put forth by the Claimants is fair and reasonable.

The Court has reviewed the facts of the claim and finds that Respondent was negligent in its maintenance of County Route 65/5 on the date of this incident; that the negligence of Respondent was the proximate cause of the damages sustained to Claimants’ vehicle; and that the amount of the damages agreed to by the parties is fair and reasonable. Thus, Claimants may make a recovery for their loss.

Accordingly, the Court is of the opinion to and does make an award to the Claimants in the amount of $491.84.

Award of $491.84.