Richard and Norma Alt v. James Caldwell, et al.
Published: Oct. 29, 1994 | Result Date: Aug. 2, 1994 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |Case number: CV25507 – $62,760
Judge
Court
USDC Nevada
Attorneys
Plaintiff
Defendant
Experts
Plaintiff
William O'Shaughnessy
(medical)
Michael Riley
(medical)
Facts
On December 30, 1992, Plaintiffs Richard and Norma Alt were proceeding down the westbound slope of Pequop Summit, approximately 17 miles east of Wells, Nevada. Plaintiffs claimed that as they were proceeding in the left number one fast lane of Interstate 80, a snowplow was approximately 35-40 yards in front of them with the snowplow raised in the right number two slow lane. As Plaintiffs approached the snowplow owned by Defendant State of Nevada, Nevada Department of Transportation, and operated by Defendant James Caldwell, the snowplow suddenly turned from the right lane across the left lane directly in the Plaintiffs' path in an attempt to enter a median crossover. Plaintiffs struck the left rear portion of the snowplow.
Settlement Discussions
Plaintiffs contend that they each made a pretrial demand of $30,000. Defendant/counter-claimant State of Nevada demanded $678 for damage to the rear of its snowplow.
Specials in Evidence
$8,890 (Richard Alt) $5,250 (Norma Alt) none (both Plaintiffs) $4,500 (Richard Alt), $3,500 (Norma Alt)
Damages
Alts' counsel asked the jury to award $102,000 to Richard Alt and $78,000 to Norma Alt. State Farm's counsel asked the jury to award $12,760 in property damage to the Alts' vehicle. Defense counsel asked the jury to award $678 against Richard Alt for damage to the snowplow.
Injuries
Richard Alt: C-5 compression fracture; T-12 compression fracture; fractures of the anterior chest wall; and a lacerated right eyebrow; subsequent development of bronchitis and an ongoing abdominal problem as a result of taking pain medication and anti-inflammatory medication. Norma Alt: L-2 compression fracture; lacerated right thigh; severe body bruising from seat belt impact; multiple neck and back sprain/strain injuries. Treatments and/or surgeries were not disclosed for either Plaintiff.
Deliberation
3 hours
Poll
6-2
Length
3 days
For reprint rights or to order a copy of your photo:
Email
jeremy@reprintpros.com
for prices.
Direct dial: 949-702-5390