Facts

A vehicle driven by defendant Daniel Solchanyk rear-ended a car driven by plaintiff Julie Furlong, a 46-year-old television producer while they were both traveling southbound on 11th Street in Santa Monica.

The defendant admitted liability.

Settlement Discussions

The plaintiff made a $150,000 Section 998 demand. The defendant made a $10,001 Section 998 offer.

Damages

The plaintiff claimed that she had sustained several injuries which prevented her from completing certain tasks at work and forced her to give up her volunteer position at her church.

Result

A jury awarded plaintiff $5,181 for her past lost earnings and $884 for her pain and suffering for a total of $6,065.34.

Other Information

The defendant filed a motion for costs. Plaintiff intends to file a motion for a new trial. EXPERT TESTIMONY: The plaintiff's medical experts opined that plaintiff had sustained whiplash, lower back injuries, and a concussion. they also diagnosed her as developing post-traumatic brain syndrome. The defendant's expert refuted plaintiffs' experts opinions. He acknowledged plaintiff's soft-tissue injuries, but denied that plaintiff had a concussion or any concussion-related injuries.

Deliberation

three hours

Poll

12-0

Length

eight days