Facts

Shawna Davi and Christopher Paulson sued Amel Sediri and Jacob Holm Industries (America) Inc., in connection with a motor vehicle accident that occurred on Jul. 26, 2012.

PLAINTIFFS' CONTENTIONS:
Defendant driver allegedly broadsided plaintiffs' vehicle as plaintiffs, husband and wife, were driving down Franklin Ave. in Hollywood. Plaintiffs were injured and sued defendant driver and his employer for negligence and vicarious liability. Plaintiffs claimed the accident occurred when defendant driver made an illegal left turn.

DEFENDANTS' CONTENTIONS:
Defendants disputed the extent of plaintiff's claimed injuries.

Damages

Davi sought $58,920 in past medical expenses; $268,000 in future medical expenses; and past and future pain and suffering damages. Paulson also sought past and future medical expenses, and pain and suffering damages.

Injuries

Davi claimed the accident aggravated a pre-existing back injury, causing further bulging in her spine. Davi claimed she experiences chronic pain and will require surgery. Paulson claimed injuries to his neck, back, and underwent chiropractic care to address them.

Result

The jury found Sederi negligent, which was a substantial factor in causing plaintiffs' harm. The jury awarded plaintiffs $536,920 in total damages, consisting of $5,984 in past medical expenses and $4,016 in past pain and suffering damages for Paulson. The award included $58,920 in past medical expenses, $168,000 in future medical expenses, $150,000 in past pain and suffering, and $150,000 in future pain and suffering for Davi.

Other Information

FILING DATE: Jan. 27, 2014.