A Mira Mesa woman who was severely injured in 1982 when a driverless runaway dump truck collided with her car was awarded $1.6 million yesterday.

A Superior Court jury deliberated for four hours after a month-long trial before Superior Court Judge Anthony C. Joseph.

Jayme Ann Annis, 26, who was represented by attorney T. Michael Reed, was awarded $1,665,031.57 in her suit against San Diego Concrete Cutting Co.

Annis was planning to attend nursing school while pursuing her master’s degree in counseling at San Diego State University when the May 27, 1982, accident occurred on Interstate 805.

Reed said the driver had left the truck, weighing 14 tons with its load, parked along the freeway after it broke down.

He said a company mechanic sent to tow the truck released the parking brake. Annis suffered multiple injuries in the resulting crash, including a fractured skull, right arm, collarbone and kneecap and a dislocated ear bone. She also suffered brain damage and was in a coma for 11 days, according to testimony.

Following is a congratulatory letter to Michael Reed from George McClenahan:

August 6, 1985

Dear Mike,
And another jewel has been added to the crown of the new King of the Plaintiffs trial bar. Pretty soon I believe the public will recognize what a great advocate is in their midst.

Congratulations on a fantastic achievement.
George