Facts

Plaintiff Jason Guastucci was riding in the back seat of a vehicle driven by Kirk Zuraek when a collision occurred.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS: Zuraek's girlfriend Jordyn Beebe was sitting in the front passenger seat. Guastucci claimed that, in the midst of an argument between Zuraek and Beebe, Zuraek took his hands off the wheel and Beebe grabbed the steering wheel while the car was in motion, causing the vehicle to flip over onto its roof and slide 50 to 100 feet. Guastucci contended that Beebe was intoxicated when she grabbed the steering wheel. Guastucci brought negligence claims against Zuraek and Beebe.

DEFENDANTS' CONTENTIONS: Beebe denied the claims against her and asserted several affirmative defenses.

Injuries

Guastucci claimed due to injuries he sustained he was unable to continue working as a professional bartender.

Result

The jury found Beebe and Zuraek were negligent and awarded Guastucci with $108,925.47. The jury attributed 40 percent responsibility to Beebe and the remainder to Zuraek.

Other Information

Guastucci reportedly settled with the defendants after moving for a new trial as to damages.