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Personal Injury
Auto v. Auto
Left Turn Collision

Elvia Gonzalez v. Joe Heger Farms LLC, Jose Maneses

Published: Jan. 16, 2016 | Result Date: Oct. 19, 2015 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |

Case number: ECU 08139 Verdict –  $5,138,360

Court

Imperial Superior


Attorneys

Plaintiff

Brian J. Panish
(Panish, Shea, Boyle & Ravipudi LLP)

Spencer R. Lucas
(Panish Shea Boyle Ravipudi LLP)

Thomas A. Schultz
(Panish, Shea & Boyle LLP)


Defendant

Paul R. Kissel

Jonathan P. Geen


Facts

Elvia Gonzalez, 59, sued Jose Maneses and his employer Joe Heger Farms LLC following an automobile collision on Dec. 6, 2013 in Imperial County.

Contentions

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Gonzalez contended that Maneses negligently operated his vehicle while he was in the course and scope of employment when he turned left in front of Gonzalez as she was driving straight on Ferrell Road.

DEFENDANTS' CONTENTIONS:
Maneses admitted fault but contested Gonzalez's injuries.

Settlement Discussions

According to defense, plaintiff's demand before trial was the policy limits of $6 million and defendants' offer before trial was $4 million.

Damages

The defense stipulated to $422,255 in past medical expenses and $18,200 in past lost earnings.

Injuries

Gonzalez claimed she fractured her ankle, hip and back, requiring surgery and leaving her with chronic pain syndrome.

Result

The jury awarded Gonzalez $5,138,359, which consisted of $3.25 million in non-economic damages and $1,888,359 in economic damages.

Other Information

FILING DATE: Oct. 19, 2015.

Deliberation

four hours

Length

six days


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