Facts

Sonya Benton sued the County of Los Angeles and Deputy Jason Zabala, in connection with a motor vehicle collision that allegedly occurred on Oct. 21, 2011.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Plaintiff was driving along Long Beach Blvd. in Lynwood when defendant collided with her vehicle as he entered the intersection with Euclid Ave. The deputy was allegedly responding to a call when the collision occurred and went through a red light. Plaintiff sustained injuries and sued defendants for negligence and vicarious liability. Plaintiff denied seeing defendant's vehicle prior to the collision. Defendant allegedly failed to secure the intersection prior to going through it, thereby causing the collision. Plaintiff also contended that defendant was responding to a nonemergency call, and as such, was not authorized to go through the intersection without first ensuring it was safe to do so.

DEFENDANTS' CONTENTIONS:
The deputy contended that his lights and siren were activated and, as such, plaintiff should have seen him coming. Defendant contended that plaintiff had a chance to avoid the collision. Defendants also disputed plaintiff's claimed injuries.

Injuries

Benton sustained injuries to her spine and underwent physical therapy and epidural shot treatments. Despite treatment, Benton continued to experience pain and limitations.

Result

The parties reached an $80,000 settlement.

Other Information

FILING DATE: Nov. 2, 2012.