Facts

On Sept. 24, 2009, Drew Zimmermann was driving on the I-5 freeway, and a vehicle operated by Norman Patton crashed into the back of Zimmermann's vehicle. Zimmermann filed suit against Patton for motor vehicle negligence.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Plaintiff alleged that Defendant was not paying attention despite being in stop-and-go traffic. Plaintiff further alleged Defendant did not stop the car in time to steer clear of the crash.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Defendant disputed causation and damages.

Settlement Discussions

Plaintiff demanded $13,642 and defendant offered $6,001.

Damages

Plaintiff sought $1,888 in medical costs, $3,400 in lost tuition, $6,305 in lost earnings, and $60,000 for his pain and suffering.

Injuries

Plaintiff sustained back and neck injury, requiring chiropractic treatment. Plaintiff also suffered contusion, headaches, soft-tissue injury, and cervical sprain.

Result

The jury awarded plaintiff $7,182.

Other Information

Government Employees Insurance Co. insured Patton.

Deliberation

45 minutes.

Length

three days