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CONFIDENTIAL

Mar. 29, 2005

Personal Injury
Premises Liability
Slip and Fall

Confidential

Settlement –  $48,000

Judge

Jan Pluim

Court

L.A. Superior Pasadena


Attorneys

Plaintiff

Douglas A. Rothschild


Defendant

Mary Childs
(Yoka & Smith LLP)


Experts

Plaintiff

Brad P. Avrit P.E.
(technical)

Facts

Plaintiff Sandra Contreras, a 43-year-old office worker, was a patron at defendant Charley Brown's restaurant in Rosemead. She slipped and fell on a pebble-stone wheelchair ramp. After stepping on the landing of the ramp, the plaintiff fell on what she claimed was greasy and slippery ground. The plaintiff has an eyewitness to her slipping.

Specials in Evidence

$19,937

Injuries

The plaintiff landed on the right side of her body with the main impact injuring her right knee and ankle. She suffered a less severe injury to her back. She claimed she suffered chondromalacia patella, which is softening and degeneration of the kneecap cartilage. Her treatment included rest and immobilization of the knee and use of anti-inflammatory drugs. She underwent physical therapy, including low-impact exercises to strengthen her leg. The plaintiff's doctor, Antoine Roberts, recommended knee surgery. The plaintiff underwent the pro-operative lab work but was found to be anemic and the surgery could not go forward as scheduled. The plaintiff turned her care over to another orthopedist. At the time of the settlement, the plaintiff was still treating conservatively, however, surgery was being recommended. She claimed past medical expenses of $9,475. She also claimed past and future pain and suffering.

Result

The parties settled for $48,000.


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