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Personal Injury
Auto v. Auto
Negligent Rental

Sierra Stockton v. Hertz Claim Management, Jolanda Panis

Published: May 21, 2011 | Result Date: Mar. 24, 2011 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |

Case number: SC101709 Verdict –  Defense (liability bifurcated)

Court

L.A. Superior Santa Monica


Attorneys

Plaintiff

George A. Shohet
(George A. Shohet APC)

John F. Denove
(Cheong & Denove)


Defendant

Robert L. Reisinger
(Ford, Walker, Haggerty & Behar LLP)


Experts

Plaintiff

Michael Price
(technical)

Defendant

Lorne Starks
(technical)

Facts

Sierra Stockton was driving southbound on Hampton Drive in Venice on Aug. 10, 2007, when she collided with a Hertz rental car operated by Jolanda Panis at the intersection of Hampton and Rose Avenue.

Contentions

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Stockton filed suit against Panis and Hertz Claim Management, alleging motor vehicle negligence and vicarious liability. Stockton contended that Panis did not stop at the four-way stop at the intersection, and that Panis was unaware of her surroundings.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Panis contended she had the right of way at the intersection, and Stockton had failed to stop at the sign.

Damages

Stockton sought $65,277.71 in past medical costs, as well as $903,576 in future medical costs, $133,822 in past lost earnings, and $1,244,726 for future lost earnings.

Injuries

Stockton claimed she suffered severe lower back pain, and underwent physical therapy. She was subsequently diagnosed with a sacroiliac joint sprain in her lower back.

Result

The jury rendered a verdict for the defense.

Deliberation

1.25 hours

Poll

10-2

Length

four days


#105463

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