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Personal Injury
Auto v. Auto
Intersection Collision

Sarah Keith, Frank Romano, Scott Quaresimin v. David Hennings and the People of the State of California by and through The Department of Transportation

Published: Sep. 21, 2013 | Result Date: Jun. 18, 2013 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |

Case number: CIVDS1205286 Verdict –  Defense

Court

San Bernardino Superior


Attorneys

Plaintiff

Michael F. Walsh


Defendant

Robert A. Baggs
(California Dept. of Transportation)

Vincent F. Demarzo


Experts

Plaintiff

Richard D. Hilleman
(medical)

Defendant

Thomas D. Murtaugh
(technical)

Facts

On Dec. 17, 2011, Sarah Keith was driving with two passengers. Scott Quaresimin was seated in the front, while Frank Romano was seated in the back. As Keith was making a turn, she collided with a vehicle operated by David Hennings. Keith, Romano, and Quaresimin sued Hennings claiming injuries. Because Hennings had been driving a state-issued vehicle, they also filed suit against the state.

Contentions

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
The plaintiffs claimed that they had a green arrow at the intersection when Hennings' vehicle struck them.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Hennings argued that he had a solid green light at the time of the accident. The Sheriff's Dept. also determined that Keith had made an improper left turn at the time of the accident.

Damages

The plaintiffs collectively sought $300,000.

Injuries

Keith claimed injuries to her back and two weeks later was diagnosed with a kidney infection. Keith claims the infection was a result of swelling that occurred during the accident. Romano also claimed back injuries and required chiropractic care. Quaresimin claimed pain to his right leg, which he treated with medication.

Result

The jury found that Hennings was not negligent.

Deliberation

2.5 hours

Poll

9-3 (defendant not negligent)

Length

10 days


#118236

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