On May 15, 2025, a McHenry County court approved a landmark $11.5 million settlement in a wrongful death lawsuit, marking the largest such payout in the county’s history. The case centered on the tragic death of 20-year-old Joseph Zephries, a Huntley High School alumnus who was fatally struck by a vehicle while working as a utility worker in January 2024. This settlement, reached with Enterprise Rent-A-Car and the driver of the vehicle, has drawn attention not only for its size but also for the broader implications it raises about safety and accountability in the rental car industry.
The Tragic Incident
Joseph Zephries was working for U.S. Infrastructure Company (USIC) on January 8, 2024, performing utility line location services along Main Street in Huntley, Illinois. While stationed on the south shoulder of the road near Coyne Station Road, he was struck by a Kia Forte rented from Enterprise Rent-A-Car. The driver, Brandon L. Evans of Chicago, reportedly fell asleep at the wheel, causing the vehicle to veer off the road. Zephries was rushed to Northwestern Medicine Huntley Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries due to blunt trauma to the head, as confirmed by McHenry County Coroner Dr. Michael Rein.
The loss of Zephries, described by his family’s attorney Brad Balke as a “motivated, enthusiastic, and driven” young man with big dreams, sent shockwaves through the Huntley community. A graduate of Huntley High School who also attended Marian Central Catholic High School in Woodstock, Zephries was remembered for his vibrant energy and bright future.
The Lawsuit and Settlement
In July 2024, Zephries’ family filed a wrongful death lawsuit in McHenry County against Evans and Enterprise Rent-A-Car. The lawsuit alleged that Evans was fatigued and drowsy, leading to the fatal crash, and that Enterprise failed to take reasonable precautions to prevent foreseeable harm involving its drivers. The case was set to go to trial the following week, but a settlement was reached just days before, approved by Judge Joel Berg on May 14, 2025.
The $11.5 million settlement surpassed the previous McHenry County record of $7.5 million, highlighting the significant value placed on Zephries’ life and the profound loss his family endured. Attorney Ben Crane of Coplan + Crane, representing the Zephries family, stated, “Enterprise stepped up and did the right thing by recognizing that a jury would have placed tremendous value on Joey’s life. This is the largest wrongful death settlement in McHenry County history, and it highlights the urgent need for rental companies to implement stronger safeguards—Joey’s legacy demands nothing less.”
Implications for the Rental Car Industry
This case sheds light on critical safety concerns within the rental car industry. The lawsuit argued that Enterprise, a global company with $38 billion in revenue last year, failed to implement adequate measures to ensure its drivers were fit to operate vehicles safely. The fact that Evans was an Enterprise employee driving a company car at the time of the incident further underscored the company’s responsibility.
The settlement has sparked discussions about the need for stricter policies to prevent driver fatigue and ensure proper vehicle maintenance. Attorney Brad Balke emphasized the case’s broader message: “We want this to be a warning to anyone who may feel drowsy while driving to get off the road and give yourself a break.” This tragedy serves as a reminder that rental car companies must prioritize safety protocols to protect both their customers and the public.
A Legacy of Change
The Zephries family’s pursuit of justice has not only secured a record-breaking settlement but also amplified the call for systemic change. The case highlights the devastating consequences of negligence and the importance of holding corporations accountable. As the Huntley community mourns the loss of a promising young man, this settlement stands as a testament to Joseph Zephries’ value and a step toward preventing similar tragedies in the future.
For families facing similar losses, this case underscores the importance of seeking legal counsel to navigate the complexities of wrongful death claims. While no amount of money can replace a loved one, settlements like this can provide financial support and a platform to advocate for safer practices.
