Barry, Barall & Spinella Secures “Policy Limits” Insurance Settlement for Family of Woman Killed in DUI

On June 7, 2020, Russell Stone of Attleboro, Massachusetts was allegedly twice the legal limit for intoxication when he crashed his car into a tree, killing one of his passengers. Our client, also of Attleboro, was in the backseat of the vehicle, and did not survive the accident. Stone and another passenger were taken to a hospital for treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.

In October, a grand jury indicted Stone on “charges of manslaughter while driving intoxicated, motor vehicle homicide while driving drunk and drunken driving causing serious bodily injury.” According to police reports, prior to the crash, Stone had threatened to kill his passengers. Witnesses described seeing a Toyota Camry traveling at a high rate of speed, going off the road, then hitting a stone wall and tree.

Our client’s aunt, who was her next of kin, contacted our law firm for assistance in settling our client’s estate, including filing the case on her behalf in probate court. We helped our client meet her goals in following all proper regulations pursuant to Massachusetts law.

Only one insurance policy was available to cover the losses associated with our client’s death/personal injury, which carried only the minimum required for Massachusetts. Barry, Barall, Taylor & Levesque stepped up to the plate and ensured Theresa’s aunt received the compensation she needed and deserved.

Within two short months, the firm obtained a settlement of policy limits, and additional PIP coverage to cover the funeral and burial expenses.

Additionally, we provided support and assistance with the ongoing criminal case, as our client’s aunt is unfamiliar with the criminal justice process. Our firm reached out to our local network and made connections to provide her with a better understanding of the case.

Our best wishes and sympathies lie with our client’s family. We are grateful that we were able to help make the legal system work for her family in the aftermath of such a terrible tragedy.

The attorneys at Barry, Barall, Taylor & Levesque, LLC represent injury victims in Hartford, Manchester, and throughout Connecticut. If you or a loved one suffered losses or damages in an accident that wasn’t your fault, we want to help. Please call 860-649-4400 or fill out our contact form today.