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
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