New Jersey Jury Awards $6.5 Million to Man Injured in Costco Gas Station Crash
A New Jersey jury has awarded $6.5 million in compensation to a man who suffered serious spinal injuries after being hit in a crash while waiting in a gas line at a Costco station in Somerset County. The case, which took several years to reach trial, highlights how a routine stop for fuel turned into a life-changing incident for a local resident.
The incident took place on October 17, 2017, at the Costco gas station located along Route 22 in North Plainfield. According to court records, 51-year-old Marc A. Ferrara, a former corrections officer from Watchung, was sitting in his SUV with his wife and infant daughter while waiting in a long line for gas.
During the wait, the couple’s baby dropped an item and began crying. Ferrara opened his driver’s side door to step out and help retrieve the object. At that moment, another vehicle driven by Noah Greenbaum attempted to pass through the gas line and struck Ferrara’s SUV.
Court testimony described that the impact caused Ferrara’s body to twist sharply as the open door was forcefully pushed back into him. At the time, he was not wearing a seatbelt, which contributed to the severity of the injuries. Although the collision occurred at a relatively low speed of about 13 mph, Ferrara suffered serious damage to his neck and spine.
He initially sought medical attention shortly after the crash, but the full extent of his injuries only became clear months later when he experienced severe pain while performing a routine activity at home. Over time, his condition worsened, and he ultimately underwent multiple spinal fusion surgeries.
After a two-week trial in Somerset County, the jury delivered its verdict in favor of Ferrara. The panel assigned 80% responsibility to the driver of the striking vehicle and 20% to Ferrara. Costco, where the incident occurred, was found not responsible for the crash.
Ferrara’s legal team argued that the injuries were directly caused by the collision and the forceful impact involving the open vehicle door. The defense, however, attempted to argue that the later medical complications were not linked to the crash and suggested an unrelated incident involving a pet dog contributed to the injuries. The jury ultimately rejected that argument.
Legal representatives for Ferrara also stated that the insurance company involved in the case did not reach a fair settlement agreement during years of negotiation before the trial.
Following the crash, Ferrara was unable to return to his previous career and later transitioned into private security work. He continues to receive medical treatment for ongoing complications related to his injuries.
The verdict brings closure to a legal battle that lasted more than eight years, ending with a significant financial award meant to cover medical costs, suffering, and long-term impact on Ferrara’s life.
Sources:
Court records from Somerset County trial proceedings
Legal filings and testimony presented during trial
NJ-based reporting on the verdict and case background



