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Personal Injury
Premises Liability
Negligence

Andrew Turpen v. Bell Tow Service Inc., Fidel Vasquez

Published: Aug. 29, 2009 | Result Date: Apr. 22, 2009 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |

Case number: VC049491 Settlement –  $720,000

Judge

Brian F. Gasdia

Court

L.A. Superior Norwalk


Attorneys

Plaintiff

Justin D. Feldman
(Lewis, Marenstein, Wicke, Sherwin & Lee LLP)


Defendant

Josephine N. Baurac
(Hanger, Steinberg, Shapiro & Ash)

Paul V. Ash
(Hanger, Steinberg, Shapiro & Ash ALC)

Cheryl A. Levy


Facts

On Sept. 27, 2006, sheriff's deputy Andrew Turpen inspected vehicles on property owned by Bell Tow Service Inc. in Cudahy. Bell Tow's employee, Fidel Vasquez, tripped and grabbed a compressor during the fall in an attempt to regain his balance. Vasquez, who weighed approximately 300 pounds, as well as the compressor, landed on Turpen. Turpen sued Vasquez and Bell Tow for premises liability and negligence. The defendants admitted liability.

Damages

Turpen claimed over $100,000 in past medical costs and over $100,000 in lost wages.

Injuries

The plaintiff suffered a tibial plateau fracture, a torn anterior cruciate ligament, and a torn medial meniscus. He required implanted hardware, screws, and physical therapy, and underwent several surgeries.

Result

The parties reached a settlement amounting to $720,000.

Other Information

Allstate Insurance Co. insured the defendants.


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