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NFL’s Ndamukong Suh Settles Car Accidents Lawsuit for $130,000

Ndamukong Suh, defensive lineman for the NFL’s Detroit Lions, will not have to look around for a valid defense to tackle claims relating to car accidents. Suh, 25, and his insurer agreed to settle a million dollar car crash lawsuit for $130,000.

On December 3, 2011, Suh was driving a 1970 Chevrolet coupe in downtown Portland when he lost control of the vehicle while accelerating out of a stop light. The rear end of the car smashed into the curb, taking out a light pole and drinking fountain before crashing into a tree.

Saadia Van Winkle, 32, was a passenger in the vehicle. She claims that Suh yelled at her to get out of the vehicle and refused to acknowledge any injuries to 911 dispatchers. She had to wait until her husband came and took her to a hospital.

Saadia also claims that the next day, Suh came by her home without invitation and offered to pay $700 if she agreed not to file any personal injury claims. Saadia subsequently filed a million dollar personal injury lawsuit in the Multnomah County Circuit Court.    

The lawsuit charges Suh with negligence, and claims medical expenses worth $4,012.05. Saadia was asking for $500,000 for emotional distress, and another $500,000 in non-economic damages for injuries to her neck and back, muscles, and for lacerations and other injuries caused by the accident.

Suh told police he had swerved to avoid hitting a small animal. Portland police found his BAC (blood alcohol content) to be within the legal limit. However, they ticketed Suh for speeding, not carrying insurance, and for improper signaling.
In a filing before the court, Suh admitted he was at fault for the accident, and was responsible for providing reasonable compensation for injuries suffered by Saadia. After Suh’s lawyer filed the $130,000 settlement agreement with the court, the case filed by Saadia Van Winkle was dismissed.