Facts

Marc Loberg sued the County of Lake, in connection with a head-on vehicle collision that allegedly occurred on Sept. 18, 2014.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS: Plaintiff was driving his vehicle in the rain when a patrol vehicle operated by Deputy Richard Kreutzer collided with him in a head-on collision. The deputy allegedly lost control of his vehicle and struck plaintiff's vehicle head-on. The deputy was allegedly not responding to any emergency when the violent collision occurred. Instead, the deputy allegedly sped up in an attempt to overtake a tractor-trailer, causing him to lose traction at high speeds. Plaintiff, who was injured as a result, sued defendant for the deputy's negligence.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS: Defendant denied the allegations. Defendant also disputed and denied plaintiff's claimed need for future surgeries.

Settlement Discussions

Loberg made a CCP 998 demand of $999,999, which the county countered with a CCP 998 offer of $425,000.

Damages

Loberg sought $165,000 in past medical expenses; $75,000 in future medical expenses; about $50,000 in past lost wages; and $300,000 in future lost wages. He also sought recovery for past and future pain and suffering in an amount not specified.

Injuries

Loberg suffered injuries to various parts of his body, including his abdomen and ankle. He also sustained fractures and a concussion, resulting in the decreased range of motion and disfigurement despite numerous surgeries. He also suffers from continuous pain as a result of his injuries.

Result

The jury found entirely in Loberg's favor and awarded him more than $2 million in damages consisting of $164,774 in past medical expenses, $76,500 in future medical expenses, $18,000 in past lost wages, $38,000 in future lost wages, $1.25 million in past pain and suffering, and half a million dollars in future pain and suffering.