Facts

The plaintiff, Miriam Kogan, was a 36-year-old pre-school assistant. Kogan was in an automobile accident at dusk. Kogan was traveling in an older American vehicle, which did not have airbags. Kogan sued Griffen, 60, for vehicle negligence, claiming injuries.

The plaintiff contended that the defendant failed to stop at a stop sign and yield the right of way in the intersection.

The defendant contended that the plaintiff was speeding and had an opportunity to avoid the impact.

Settlement Discussions

According to the defense, the plaintiff demanded $249,000 and the defendant offered $20,000. This is disputed by the plaintiff. According to the plaintiff, a demand of $35,000 was made on the eve of trial.

Injuries

The plaintiff claimed injuries to her neck; 3 mm L4-5 disk bulge, radiating through sciatic nerve; multiple MRIs, diagnostic tests; minimal physical therapy; and constant lower back pain.

Result

The jury returned a verdict judgment of $25,000 for the plaintiff.

Poll

12-0 (liability), 11-1 (damages)

Length

three days