There really is no way to put a monetary value on the extent of suffering that can be endured as a result of the personal injuries in a car accident. After recovery from physical damage, a person may not appear to be any the worse for wear to the casual observer. But there is a lot that may not be visible to the naked eye. There is also the psychological hurt that may never be overcome. No matter what the injury, South Carolinians who suffer loss deserve to be duly compensated.

That appears to have been the conclusion of a jury recently on behalf of a former Navy veteran. While he now lives in South Carolina, the motorcycle accident that led to his winning a damage claim of more than $7.5 million took place in San Diego. As a result of his injuries, the just-married, 27-year-old sailor had to undergo reconstructive surgery that resulted in his penis being shortened by an inch and a half.

The accident happened in 2007. The man was on his way to work at the Navy submarine base in San Diego when he was struck by the shuttle bus from a nearby auto dealership. The sailor was hurled from his motorcycle, smashed his pubic bone and suffered nerve and blood vessel damage to his penis.

This man has his life, but in the wake of his shortening reconstructive surgery he has gone through a divorce and has left the Navy. During his trial, his attorney noted for the jury that it is unclear whether the man will ever be able to have children. He also noted that his condition will affect every relationship he has in the future, as well as his ongoing self-esteem.

The car dealership says it plans to appeal the verdict.

Source: The Daily Mail, "Man awarded $7.5m for motorcycle crash that shortened his penis by an inch and a half," Jan. 15, 2012