Facts

Knarik Davtyan was driving northbound on Van Nuys Boulevard in Los Angeles on Sept. 8, 2009, when she was rear-ended by a vehicle driven by Eric Szmanda at the intersection of Ventura Boulevard.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Davtyan filed suit against Szmanda, alleging motor vehicle negligence. Davtyan contended that Szmanda failed to slow down in order to stop to avoid the collision.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Szmanda admitted liability, but contended the impact was minor and could not have caused Davtyan's alleged injuries.

Settlement Discussions

Defendant's offer pre-trial was $12,000.

Damages

Davtyan sought damages of $30,000 in past medical costs, $50,000 for future medical costs, $1,350 for past lost earnings, and $100,000 for pain and suffering.

Injuries

Davtyan claimed injuries to her neck and back, undergoing chiropractic treatment.

Result

The jury awarded Davtyan $20,338 in damages.