Facts

Plaintiff Roy Hall, a wheelchair-bound 90 year old retiree, was a passenger on a paratransit vehicle operated by Easy Lift Transportation and driven by Jorge Bravo. While the bus was making a turn, Hall fell out of his wheelchair and hit the ground.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Plaintiff argued that Bravo was negligent in the operation of his vehicle and Easy Life Transportation was vicariously liable. Plaintiff contended that Bravo had not fully secured Hall's wheelchair.

Settlement Discussions

Plaintiff made a 998 demand of $449,000.

Damages

Plaintiff sought $152,060 for medical costs; Medicare lien was $36,449.

Injuries

Hall sustained a fracture to his right clavicle for which he required surgery. He also sustained a laceration on his scalp and numerous contusions. He claimed to suffer from residual pain and discomfort that had caused a personality change.

Result

The parties settled for $450,000, two weeks before trial.

Other Information

Mediator: Kevin McIvers, Santa Barbara.