Lee Olson, Becky Olson, a minor, by and through her Guardian Ad Litem, Lee Olson, Corrine Olson, a minor, by and through her Guardian Ad Litem, Lee Olson v. Pedro Escalante and Tate Enterprises
Published: Sep. 25, 1999 | Result Date: Jul. 23, 1999 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |Case number: SC019946 Verdict – $17,500
Judge
Court
Ventura Superior
Attorneys
Plaintiff
Albro L. Lundy
(Baker, Burton & Lundy PC )
Defendant
Experts
Plaintiff
Arthur Kreitenberg M.D.
(medical)
Laura Paine
(medical)
Michael Sinnel
(medical)
Bruce Grossman
(technical)
Defendant
John L. Howard
(medical)
Facts
On Feb. 22, 1997, plaintiff, a 16-year-old student, was riding as a front seat passenger in a vehicle being driven by her father. Her younger sister was riding in the back seat. As plaintiff's Ford Taurus proceeded into the intersection on a green light, defendant Tate Enterprises' Chevrolet pick-up, driven by defendant Pedro Escalante, struck another vehicle and upon veering off, struck the Ford Taurus on the passenger side in the area where plaintiff was sitting.
Settlement Discussions
The plaintiff demanded $150,000. The plaintiff made a C.C.P. º998 demand of $99,999.99 on the eve of trial. The defendants offered $40,000.
Specials in Evidence
$17,500 $95,000 - $627,000 $45,000
Injuries
The plaintiff claimed soft tissue injuries to the neck and back. The primary alleged injury was complex regional pain syndrome to the brachial plexus (collection of nerves between the shoulder and neck) which caused continuing pain, tingling and numbness for the nearly 2+ years between the accident date and the trial. Since plaintiff was right handed, she alleged limitations in performing everyday activities, especially in writing.
Other Information
The plaintiff requested a trial de novo. According to the defendant, following the trial, plaintiff agreed to accept $15,000 in exchange for a waiver of defendants' fees and costs.
Deliberation
three hours
Poll
10-2
Length
five days
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