Facts

On Aug. 5, 2017, plaintiff Jason Showalter was a passenger in a Jeep driven by defendant, Neil Anderson. Anderson admitted to drinking alcohol prior to picking up plaintiff. As Anderson rounded a curve on a windy road, he lost control and the Jeep flipped and ultimately caught on fire. Plaintiff was ejected from the Jeep and sustained an open fracture of the left tibia shaft and left forearm fracture which required surgery and many months of physical rehabilitation. Plaintiff also has severe scarring as a result of the injuries and surgeries.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS: Plaintiff contended that Anderson was negligent in his operation of the vehicle because he had drank alcohol.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS: Defendant admitted to drinking alcohol.

Insurer

California Capital Insurance Company

Specials in Evidence

Meds: $156,000

Injuries

Plaintiff suffered injuries to his left tibia fracture; left forearm fracture, permanent disfigurement

Result

The case settled for $545,000.