Douglas Letourneau v. Marc Zeidler
Published: Oct. 31, 2009 | Result Date: Aug. 18, 2009 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |Case number: YC057821 Verdict – $20,000
Court
L.A. Superior Torrance
Attorneys
Plaintiff
Rex P. Sofonio
(Sofonio & Associates)
Defendant
Carla Giudice-Hu
(Stratman & Williams-Abrego)
Facts
On Jan. 4, 2008, Douglas Letourneau, 44, cleaned the ducts of a dryer in Marc Zeidler's residence. Letourneau and Zeidler carried the machine back to its original placed once Letourneau finished cleaning it. Letourneau tripped and fell when they approached a staircase, causing the machine to drop on top of him. Letourneau sued Zeidler, alleging premises liability.
Contentions
PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
The plaintiff claimed that Zeidler was liable because he guided Letourneau toward the staircase while Letourneau walked backward. He claimed that Zeidler failed to warn him of the staircase and did not attempt to stop the machine from falling on him.
DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
The defense asserted that Letourneau was responsible for his own safety and did not have to assist Zeidler in moving the machine back to its original place.
Settlement Discussions
The plaintiff demanded $7,500 and the defense made no offer.
Damages
The plaintiff sought $12,000 in lost earnings damages, and damages for pain and suffering.
Injuries
The plaintiff suffered a fractured finger, fractured wrist, leg puncture wound, and leg scars.
Result
The jury awarded the plaintiff $20,000.
Other Information
Farmers insured Zeidler.
Deliberation
one hour
Poll
12-0
Length
one day
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