Behr v. Eatery Investment Group, et al.

VERDICT

Trial
06/03/25 – 06/11/25

Summary

In this vehicular collision case, Nell Behr died after a fatal head-on collision with Ramon Cerda. Cerda had been drinking at a bar before the crash and was sentenced to 12 years in prison for DUI manslaughter. Monique and John Behr sue Cerda for causing the fatal accident. Eatery Investment Group, owner of the bar Cerda was at before the accident, was originally named in the lawsuit but was not a defendant at trial.

Attorneys for the plaintiffs highlight the weight of Nell's loss to the Behr family. During consideration of punitive damages, they argue that Cerda's history of driving under the influence warrants a high punitive award.

Cerda admits liability for both compensatory and punitive damages. Cerda's attorneys argue that Behr's parents have been successfully working through their grief, and that punitive damages should be a lower value, as Cerda was not wealthy and was already serving prison time.

Outcome

Verdict for plaintiff.

Total damages: $12.8 million.
Including $10.3 million in compensatory damages and $2.5 million in punitive damages.

Case Information
Attorneys
Witnesses
Plaintiff
Defense
Verdict
$12,800,000
Judge
Bruce Anderson
Jurisdiction
4th Judicial Circuit of Florida
Court
Duval County Courthouse
Case Number
2023-CA-001097
Industry
Transportation
Practice Area
Transportation
Plaintiff
Behr, Monique
Defense
Eatery Investment Group
Expert Witnesses
Lay Witnesses

Sessions

JUN
3
PM Session
Other
3 Chapters
JUN
4
JUN
9
JUN
10
JUN
11

Recording Disclaimer: This proceeding was recorded in full.

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