Two individuals, Edvard Petrovskiy and Irina Gromova, who claim they were severely injured in a car crash involving Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice earlier this year, are now hoping Rice’s recent injury will expedite the resolution of their lawsuit.
Petrovskiy and Gromova allege that they suffered significant injuries, including brain trauma, facial lacerations, body bruises, and internal bleeding, after Rice and a friend lost control of their sports cars on March 30, crashing into their vehicle while speeding on a Texas highway.
The two victims filed a lawsuit in April, seeking at least $10 million in punitive damages. However, the case has made little progress, and court records indicate that a trial won’t begin until June 2025. Despite the delay, their attorney, Sanjay S. Mathur, expressed hope this week that Rice’s recent injury on the football field could serve as a catalyst for an amicable resolution.
Rice sustained a knee injury during the Chiefs’ game against the Los Angeles Chargers while attempting to make a tackle after a Patrick Mahomes interception. Although the full extent of Rice’s injury has yet to be disclosed, the Chiefs have placed him on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least the next four games. Prior to his injury, the 24-year-old had been enjoying a strong season, with 24 receptions for 288 yards and two touchdowns.
RELATED: Video Surfaces of Rashee Rice’s Mother Allegedly Taking Neighbor’s Package
In a statement to TMZ Sports, Mathur commented on the timing of Rice’s injury and drew parallels between the NFL star’s situation and the injuries his clients are facing. “We are saddened to hear about Rashee Rice’s injury on the football field and hope for his quick recovery,” Mathur said. “Injuries can significantly impact one’s life, causing both physical pain and mental distress. They disrupt routines, hobbies, daily chores, and activities. Injuries often lead to medical procedures and bills, and they can hinder one’s ability to earn a living.”
Mathur emphasized that the plaintiffs in the case against Rice are also struggling to recover from their injuries and are seeking justice. “We are struck by the fact that Rice was injured at a time when the plaintiffs in our case against him are seeking justice for their own injuries,” he continued. “We hope that these recent developments will foster empathy, a resolve to seek resolution, and, most importantly, an acceptance of responsibility toward the injured parties in our case.”
Rice has previously expressed remorse for his role in the March car crash, but he is still facing legal challenges, including potential criminal charges and an NFL suspension. While the wide receiver has apologized for his involvement, his recent injury may bring renewed attention to the legal and financial ramifications of the crash, as his accusers look to bring closure to their case.
As Petrovskiy and Gromova await their day in court, their lawyer hopes that Rice’s own experience with injury will prompt him to take responsibility and work toward a settlement.
Whether the recent developments will lead to a faster resolution remains to be seen, but the plaintiffs are eager to see the case move forward and have their injuries acknowledged and compensated.
