Facts

On March 12, 2010, Nance Donati was driving on Franklin Street in San Francisco, and stopped at a red light at an intersection with Hayes Street. A vehicle operated by Sarah Nicholas rear-ended Donati's vehicle while it was stopped. Donati filed suit against Nichols.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Plaintiff alleged that Nichols drove her vehicle in a negligent manner. She alleged that when the collision occurred, she was speaking to her son, who was a passenger in the car, and as a result, her neck was turned to the right, causing neck and shoulder injuries.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Defendant admitted legal responsibility for the accident, but challenged the scope of plaintiff's alleged injuries.

Settlement Discussions

Plaintiff demanded $19,000 and defendant offered $10,000.

Damages

Donati sought $6,5000 in past medical costs and $10,000 in past loss of earnings.

Injuries

Plaintiff suffered neck and soft tissue injuries. She required physical therapy and chiropractic care.

Result

On June 28, the jury awarded Donati $4,910 as follows: $1,410 in past economic damages and $3,500 in past economic loss. On July 10, Judge Anne-Christine Massullo upheld the jury's verdict.

Deliberation

three hours

Poll

12-0

Length

three days