A driver from the Bronx, who narrowly escaped death after metal debris crashed through his windshield on the George Washington Bridge, has been awarded $10.5 million after suffering a serious brain injury. Court records highlight the incident from March 2, 2020.
At that time, Joseph Rosario, aged 28, was behind the wheel of his 2015 Chrysler 200 when a 24-inch steel suspension piece from a truck fell onto the roadway and struck him. According to the lawsuit filed in August of the same year, the metal impacted him so severely that it fractured his skull, sending fragments into the back seat of his car. This case was heard in Essex County, New Jersey.
After the accident, he was immediately taken to Hackensack Meridian Health, where he underwent several brain surgeries for a fractured skull and substantial brain swelling.
His attorney, Ed Capozzi, remarked, “His life is a miracle,” adding that they started digging into how long the debris was on the bridge by reviewing extensive driver dashcam footage and numerous Port Authority videos.
Capozzi noted that their investigation revealed the bottom piece of the truck suspension had been on the ground for at least ten minutes prior to the accident. “You could see cars actively avoiding it,” he said.
He mentioned that their findings uncovered twelve other incidents involving vehicles colliding with debris on bridges. Capozzi criticized the Port Authority, which manages the George Washington Bridge, for failing to adequately clear the debris for several days before the incident.
He expressed disappointment, stating, “They should have maintained the bridge better.” According to him, crews typically walk the span once daily, collecting quite a bit of debris, but this routine wasn’t followed in the days leading up to the accident.
The settlement was finalized on June 17, but Capozzi emphasized that Rosario’s life has been irrevocably altered. He is now in a wheelchair and heavily reliant on his family’s support as he continues rehabilitation.
“He will never be the same again,” Capozzi remarked.
The Port Authority has not responded to requests for comments regarding the matter.
