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Missouri Sunset

Floyd Law Firm Delivers Largest Verdict in Pulaski County History

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Posted on May 17, 2025

a tractor tending to a farm field

When facing a personal injury legal battle, you need an attorney who will fight for you — tirelessly, strategically, and with an unwavering commitment to securing justice. At The Floyd Law Firm, Mark Floyd doesn’t just take on cases; he goes head-to-head in the courtroom, securing not only fair compensation but the best possible outcome for his clients.

One recent case that showcases Floyd’s dedication and courtroom mastery is Larry Bassett V. Cable America — a case that many believed was an uphill battle, but Floyd turned into the largest verdict victory in Pulaski County.

A Tough Case in a Tough County

Missouri’s Pulaski County is known for its strict and conservative jury decisions, making it a challenging venue for plaintiffs seeking justice. When 68-year-old Larry Bassett, a hardworking farmer, was severely injured while operating his Bobcat tractor, attorney Floyd stepped in without hesitation. Larry had unknowingly struck a steel guy wire that was improperly left unattached to a ground anchor. When the tractor blade hit the wire, it flung the cable into the air, looping it over a live power line. The cable then came down, touching Larry’s mowing deck — an entirely preventable accident Floyd was determined to prove resulted from negligence.

Bassett endured multiple surgeries, including open carpal tunnel, radial tunnel release, and spinal decompression surgeries, generating nearly $500,000 in medical expenses. The defense argued that his injuries were pre-existing and that it was impossible for him to have been shocked due to the placement of the wire. However, Floyd meticulously dismantled these claims.

Mark Floyd’s Unyielding Fight

Throughout the trial, Floyd proved his thoroughness and ability to outmaneuver the defense with critical strategies:

Exposing Inconsistencies

Floyd zeroed in on inconsistencies in the defense’s changing statements. The defendant had modified their explanation multiple times regarding how the wire was attached to a ground anchor and whether it posed any risk. By highlighting these shifts, Floyd undermined the defense’s credibility before the jury.

Expert Testimony

Floyd brought in a highly qualified engineer to testify about the nature of the machinery and the wiring setup. This expert debunked the defense’s claims that the wire couldn’t have reached Bassett’s tractor. The engineer provided detailed insights on how the wire likely met the live electrical current, contradicting the defense’s narrative.

Eyewitness Accounts

A critical witness who lived near the utility pole testified that he hadn’t seen a wire attached to the ground anchor, a direct rebuttal to the defense’s claim that the wire was safely secured. Floyd emphasized this testimony to show the negligence of Cable America in maintaining safe conditions.

Uncovering Negligence

Further investigation revealed that Cable America had failed to track important information about their contractors. This lack of oversight and accountability contributed to the unsafe conditions that led to Bassett’s injuries. By highlighting this corporate oversight, Floyd strengthened the case for the jury to hold the company responsible.

Despite the odds, Floyd secured a $2.87 million verdict — more than three times the medical expenses incurred by Bassett. A Pulaski County jury, known for being tough on plaintiffs, found Cable America 80% responsible for the incident, sending a powerful message about corporate accountability. Floyd secured the highest verdict ever recorded in the county.

Why Clients Believe in the Floyd Law Firm

Verdicts and settlements like Larry Bassett V. Cable America demonstrate Mark Floyd’s strategic approach, thorough case preparation, and fearless courtroom advocacy. Over the years, the firm has won thousands of cases like this one, achieving a 90% referral rate. Floyd’s clients don’t just win; they win big — far exceeding the compensation they initially thought possible. Whether you’re up against a corporate giant or not, Floyd Law Firm ensures you’re not just another case number — you’re a priority.

Injured due to negligence? Don’t settle for less. Let Mark Floyd fight for you. Request a free consultation today!