Facts

On July 24, 2002, plaintiff, Shirley Harden, a 54-year-old certified nurse's assistant, was driving a sedan in Roseville when defendant, Susan Glosl, rear-ended her car. Harden claimed she sustained neck injuries from the collision.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
The plaintiff sued Glosl alleging that Glosl was negligent in the operation of a motor vehicle.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Glosl contended that she had to make a sudden lane change to avoid hitting a Lexus which had cut her off and continued to harass her.

Damages

The plaintiff sought $38,000 for medical bills and $650,000 for past and future lost earnings. She sought general damages for pain and suffering. The defense denied liability for the accident and claimed that plaintiff was not injured in the minor rear-end collision and argued the pain was due to another accident at work.

Injuries

The plaintiff sustained a permanent neck injury due to a congenital fusion and suffered severe decreased range of motion. She also had headaches.

Result

The jury returned a verdict in favor of the defense.

Other Information

Insurer for defendant: Allstate.

Deliberation

1.5 hours

Poll

9-3

Length

six days