Facts

Plaintiff Bonny Bucholz and defendant Robert Thaker were involved in a motor vehicle accident on Oct. 25, 2005, on the I-605. Bucholz brought suit for vehicle negligence.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Bucholz claimed that her vehicle was at a stop when Thaker's car rear-ended her. Bucholz claimed that Thaker was using his cell phone at the time of the collision.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Thaker contended that the collision occurred at low speeds because the flow of traffic was stop and go. The damage to Bucholz's care was limited to the bumper and hitch, but the speed of impact was insufficient to cause plaintiff injuries. Thaker contended that Bucholz's medical care was unreasonable and unnecessary and the medical costs were excessive.

Settlement Discussions

Bucholz demanded $20,000. Thaker offered $1,500.

Specials in Evidence

Bucholz claimed $7,582 in medical expenses and $3,175 for the care of her horse.

Damages

Bucholz claimed $594 for the replacement of the bumper and hitch. During the repairs, she had to rent a car for 12 days, which cost another $512.

Injuries

Bucholz claimed neck pain and a disc bulge.

Result

The jury returned a verdict for Thaker and awarded him $3,868 in costs.

Other Information

FILING DATE: Oct. 16, 2007.