Facts

Pamela Salazar sued the County of San Bernardino and Arrowhead Regional Medical Center.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Plaintiff alleged that she slipped and fell on an outdoor ramp at the Medical Center as she accompanied her husband to his medical appointment. The ramp, which was located outside, had loose sand that leaked from a broken pipe, creating a dangerous condition. Plaintiff alleged that she was injured as a result of the fall, and sued defendants, alleging negligence and premises liability.

DEFENDANTS' CONTENTIONS:
Defendants disputed plaintiff's claims, alleging that it had no prior notice of the alleged dangerous condition. Defendants also disputed her claimed injuries, arguing that her alleged back injury was unrelated to the subject incident.

Settlement Discussions

Salazar made a CCP 998 demand of $250,000, which defendants countered with an offer for waiver of costs.

Damages

Salazar requested $30,831 in past medical expenses and an unspecified amount in future medical expenses.

Injuries

Salazar fractured her left ankle, and underwent surgery to repair it. She also injured her back in the fall, which necessitated surgery. Despite the surgical procedures, she continued to experience reduced mobility as well as pain and discomfort.

Result

The jury awarded Salazar $110,000 in damages, which included $50,000 in past pain and suffering and $60,000 in future pain and suffering. The county allegedly took a $30,831 lien on the judgment for Salazar's remaining unpaid medical expenses.

Deliberation

two days

Length

nine days