Mitchell Reichwein v. United States Postal Service

I.

INTRODUCTION

Plaintiff Mitchell Reichwein sues the United States for negligence under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA). While traveling on his motorcycle, Plaintiff was struck by a United States Postal Service (USPS) mail delivery truck. The government admits liability and stipulates damages for property loss ($8,206) and past medical expenses ($114,653.05). (ECF 72 at 2). The parties dispute, however, whether Plaintiff is entitled to future medical expenses. And while they agree that Plaintiff should recover general damages for past and future pain and suffering, the parties disagree about the amount. As a result, in accordance with the parties’ waiver of jury trial, the Court held a two-day bench trial on March 17 and 18, 2025 to address the remaining disputed issues over damages. The Court heard testimony by Plaintiff and the parties’ orthopedic experts who testified about Plaintiff’s injuries, the medical care he received, and what (if any) future medical care he needs. Having now judged the credibility of the witnesses, reviewed all trial exhibits, and considered the parties’ post-trial filings, the Court details here its findings of fact and conclusions of law…