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Personal Injury
Auto v. Auto
Intersection, Head-On Collision

Guillermo Arias v. Kyle McDarias and Steven McDarias

Published: Apr. 5, 2014 | Result Date: Nov. 6, 2013 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |

Case number: PC053931 Verdict –  $128,127

Court

L.A. Superior San Fernando


Attorneys

Plaintiff

Stuart M. Sherman
(Sherman Law Firm)

Harry N. Kane


Defendant

Jack M. Liebhaber
(Tyson & Mendes LLP)


Experts

Plaintiff

Jacob E. Tauber M.D.
(medical)

Defendant

Stephen Kay
(medical)

Facts

Guillermo Arias sued Kyle McDarias and Steven McDarias, based on a traffic accident.

Contentions

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
On Nov. 17, 2011, plaintiff was driving near an intersection when he was hit by another vehicle. Plaintiff claimed that the other vehicle, driven by Kyle McDarias, suddenly crossed over the centerline of the intersection, causing a head on collision with Arias. Arias then sued Kyle McDarias and Steven McDarias, the owner of the vehicle. Arias argued that Kyle had been driving inattentively, causing the accident, and that Steven was also responsible for his actions.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Kyle McDarias claimed that he had been driving behind Arias, and that another vehicle hit him from behind, pushing him into Arias' vehicle and causing the accident. He later claimed that he did not remember what had happened.

Settlement Discussions

Arias demanded $100,000 to settle. The McDariases offered $60,000.

Injuries

Arias complained of pain to his back, neck, and shoulders. He later required a surgery.

Result

A jury awarded Arias $128,127 after it found that Kyle was the only cause of the accident.

Other Information

INSURER: Mercury Insurance Group.


#121050

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