Facts

On October 4, 2020, Jinnie Chang, who worked as a real estate agent, property manager, and loan originator, was involved in a traffic collision as she exited a Safeway parking lot in San Mateo. On June 8, 2022, Chang filed suit against the other driver, Alejandrina S. Webb, in San Mateo County Superior Court.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTETIONS: Chang contended that Webb, who was making a left turn, collided with her vehicle in the Safeway parking lot. She further contended that, at the time of the accident, she was 68 years old and a breast cancer survivor. Chang contended that, as a result of her medical condition and history, which included diabetes and blood thinner medications, she was more susceptible to seatbelt injuries than others would be. According to Chang, after the accident, her condition worsened, and she was hospitalized three days later for severe sepsis. Chang contended that she suffered hematomas to her left breast and her right pelvis; that the hematoma caused a bladder infection, which led to the sepsis. Chang further alleged that, in the years following the accident, she underwent eight surgeries to remove the hematoma, but ultimately, her injuries resulted in a total mastectomy of her left breast. In addition to these issues, Chang also alleged that the suffered neck injuries and a mild traumatic brain injury as a result of the collision, claiming that she lost consciousness during the accident. According to Chang, she suffered $455,351 in medical expenses, $575,714 in lost earnings, $603,618 in lost future earnings, and future medical expenses of $1 million.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS: Webb denied any wrongdoing or liability and all Chang's material allegations. Moreover, Webb contended that Chang's injuries were not as serious as she claimed, particularly in light of the low-speed nature of the collision, which Webb contended could not cause a mild traumatic brain injury.

Insurer

Farmers Insurance

Settlement Discussions

Prior to filing suit, Chang demanded $1.5 million, but Webb made no counteroffer. During mediation with mediator Bradley L Bostick, Webb offered $100,000 to settle Chang's claims.

Specials in Evidence

Meds: $455,351 Loe: $575,714 Future Loe: $603,618 Future Meds: $1 million

Result

The parties reached an agreement wherein the defendant agreed to pay $1.5 million to settle Chang's claims.

Other Information

MEDIATOR: Bradley L. Bostick.