Confidential
Settlement – $990,000Judge
Court
L.A. Superior Pomona
Attorneys
Plaintiff
Fred D. Crawford IV
(Law Offices of Fred D. Crawford IV ALC)
Defendant
Facts
In the early hours of May 19, 2000, the plaintiff, a 3-year-old child, was a passenger in the defendantÆs
Freightliner tractor, with a double set of trailers, on Interstate 210 traveling eastbound. The tractor was driven
by the plaintiffÆs father and the other passengers were the plaintiffÆs 39-year-old mother, his 5-year-old elder
sister and his 12-year-old cousin. The tractor developed a fuel leak, apparently after being driven over a tire
tread on the freeway. Subsequently, the vehicle jack-knifed on the connector ramp to Interstate 10 eastbound.
This resulted in the ejection of all the occupants of the vehicle, with the exception of the driver, through the
right side of the tractor and over the concrete bridge railing. The plaintiff survived but with substantial injuries.
He also suffered the loss of his mother, his sister and cousin, all of whom died in the accident.
The plaintiff contended that the defendantÆs driver was negligent and that he violated
numerous safety and vehicle code provisions which resulted in the accident.
Settlement Discussions
The case was settled for $990,000 with a guaranteed payout to the minor, over the life of the structured settlement of $5,093,943.
Specials in Evidence
approximately $40,000 Unknown.
Injuries
The plaintiff suffered a fractured pelvis, a fractured femur and numerous lacerations as well as cuts and bruises over his face and body. He also suffered severe emotional pain and suffering.
Other Information
<M>A two-day mediation was held before Judge Russell Bostrom from Judicate West.</M>
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