Confidential
Settlement – $395,000Court
L.A. Superior Central
Attorneys
Plaintiff
Robert A. Brenner
(Law Office of Robert A. Brenner)
Defendant
Facts
On March 18, 1995, the major plaintiff, a 35-year-old freelance gaffer for the movie industry, was competing in a road race at Willow Springs Race Track. An oil filter that was manufactured by the defendant, a Korean company, was installed on another competitor's motorcycle. The oil filter blew off because of failed attachment-threads. The filter separated from the motorcycle causing that motorcycle to lose all of its oil. The oil was deposited on the racetrack, causing five other motorcycles to crash because of the slippery condition. The crash occurred at one of the fastest places on the track. When the major plaintiff hit the oil-slick along with other trailing motorcyclists, he and they lost control and crashed. The major plaintiff suffered serious personal injuries and property damage to his custom-built racing motorcycle. The other plaintiff riders suffered minor personal injuries and their motorcycles were destroyed. The oil filter which caused the accident had been recalled for this same problem prior to this incident. The plaintiffs, the three riders, brought this action against the manufacturer of the filter and the retail seller based on negligence and product liability theories of recovery.
Settlement Discussions
The plaintiffs made an initial settlement demand for $500,000. The defendants made an initial offer of compromise for $225,000.
Specials in Evidence
$53,000 $35,000 $ _______ $ ______
Injuries
The major plaintiff alleged he suffered multiple fractures, a closed head injury, blunt trauma injury to the heart and loss of his spleen.
Other Information
The settlement was reached approximately six months after the case was filed.
For reprint rights or to order a copy of your photo:
Email
jeremy@reprintpros.com
for prices.
Direct dial: 949-702-5390