Facts

Joe Alkakos was a passenger in a vehicle driving southbound on Interstate 680 on Oct. 15, 2008 when it was rear-ended by a vehicle operated by Barry Mathis. The collision caused Alkakos' vehicle to rear-end another vehicle.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Alkakos filed suit against Mathis, alleging motor vehicle negligence. He contended that Mathis was driving too fast for conditions in violation of California's Vehicle Code.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Mathis conceded negligence but alleged that Alkakos was contributorily negligent in failing to wear a seat belt.

Damages

Alkakos sought $465,000 in past general damages as well as $73,648.80 in past special damages.

Injuries

Alkakos sustained a splenic hematoma, acute posthemorrahage anema, multiple rib fractures, a nasal fracture, as well as contusions and neck and back strains.

Result

The jury awarded Alkakos $158,589 in damages.

Length

four days