Facts

On December 3, 2020, Michael Torossian was involved in a vehicle collision along with Deputy Jerry Esparza of the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department. At the time of the accident, Esparza was driving his marked LASD patrol vehicle. On June 10, 2021, Torossian filed suit against Esparza, the County of Los Angeles, and LASD.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS: Torossian contended he was driving his Toyota Prius on Aliso Street when he entered the intersection with Broadway; as he entered the intersection, Esparza, on duty and driving a marked LASD patrol vehicle, ran a redlight; and as a result, Torossian's Prius collided with the passenger side Esparza's patrol vehicle. Torossian contended that he suffered severe injuries from the crash, and he was transported to the hospital via ambulance. Torossian claimed that Esparza was liable for his injuries; LASD and the County were liable for Esparza's negligence.

DEFENDANTS' CONTENTIONS: The defendants denied any liability.

Result

The parties reached an agreement wherein the County agreed to pay $175,000 to settle Torossian's claims.