Kelly Culotta v. Frank R. Zolnierowicz, Janice E. Zolnierowicz
Published: May 17, 2005 | Result Date: May 27, 2004 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |Case number: MC014457 Verdict – $252,588
Judge
Court
L.A. Superior Lancaster
Attorneys
Plaintiff
Defendant
Sandra K. Brislin
(Muhar, Garber, Av & Duncan)
Experts
Plaintiff
Judith Shell
(medical)
Steven Freedman
(medical)
C. Scott Sanders
(medical)
Defendant
Roberta L. Falke
(medical)
D. Gene Parks M.D.
(medical)
Facts
Plaintiff Kelly Culotta, a 17-year-old high school student, was visiting a friend at the home of defendants Frank and Janice Zolnierowicz in Acton. After the plaintiff entered the defendants' house, she was bit by the defendants' German shepherd on her right breast. The plaintiff sued the defendants for strict liability under the state's dog bite statute. The defendants admitted they were liable but disputed the plaintiff's injuries.
Injuries
The plaintiff claimed a permanent one-inch scar near her right nipple. She also claimed emotional distress and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Result
The jury awarded $252,588 to plaintiff ($15,088 past medical; $14,000 future medical; $223,500 non-economic damages). The plaintiff was awarded $17,495 in costs.
Deliberation
two days
Poll
11-1
Length
six days
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