Facts

John Saucer was stopped at a traffic light when his vehicle, a green, Datson sports car, was allegedly struck by a truck operated by Suzanne Jackson. Saucer's vehicle was propelled forward as a result of the collision onto a third vehicle. Saucer sued Jackson for motor vehicle negligence and contended that Jackson was following too closely in violation of California Vehicle Code Section 21703.

Jackson contended that although Saucer's vehicle was involved in the accident, an unidentified male was driving the vehicle at the time of the incident. Defendant later contended that Saucer, an African-American, was not involved in the accident, and that defendant was involved in a minor accident with a white male who was driving a four-door sedan instead of Saucer's green vehicle. Defendant's property loss adjuster testified to no evidence of fraud by Saucer and none was suspected.

Damages

He sought recovery for his medical expenses, and pain and suffering. He also sought recovery for the property damage to his car, which included damages to the vehicle's front and rear bumper, hood, moldings, rear body panel, tail lamps, and license frame. Jackson's insurer, Farmer's Insurance, settled the claim for damages to his vehicle. Saucer was receiving disability and receiving medical treatment for his work-related injury.

Injuries

Saucer claimed to have sustained head trauma, injuries to his neck, left shoulder, left arm, and back. He was receiving medical treatment for work-related injuries at the time of the accident. He received medical treatment and returned to his pre-accident status in four months, according to his treating physician.

Result

The jury found in favor of Saucer and found Jackson negligent. The jury awarded $3,515 in past medical expenses and $1,000 for past pain and suffering. The jury did not award any amount for future pain and suffering.

Deliberation

four hours

Length

six days