Carol Mejia v. Mazda Motors of America
Published: Feb. 15, 2001 | Result Date: Oct. 19, 2000 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |Case number: BC209176 Verdict – $69,032
Judge
Court
L.A. Superior Central
Attorneys
Plaintiff
Robert F. Brennan
(Law Offices of Robert F. Brennan APC)
Defendant
Experts
Plaintiff
Timothy C. Saurwein
(technical)
Facts
The plaintiff purchased 1997 Mazda
Protege in May 1997. The plaintiff
began experiencing numerous problems
with the vehicle which the manufacturer
was unable to correct.
Settlement Discussions
Proper to trial, the defendants offered plaintiff $10,000.
Damages
The plaintiff was awarded $23,010,80 in damages; plus a civil penalty of $46,021.60, the maximum available under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act.
Other Information
The plaintiff presented a detailed chart showing that the plaintiff took the vehicle to Mazda's authorized repair facilities for brakes 11 times, for driveability issues seven times, for body interior and exterior concerns seven times, for the engine six times and for front end/suspension problems four times. The plaintiff finally stopped driving the car for fear that it was unsafe.
Deliberation
half day
Poll
10-2 (liability), 11-1 (damages)
Length
six days
For reprint rights or to order a copy of your photo:
Email
jeremy@reprintpros.com
for prices.
Direct dial: 949-702-5390