Facts

Plaintiff Ross Pollack was traveling southbound on Tampa Avenue in Chatsworth in his SUV on Dec. 26, 2002. As he approached the Devonshire Street intersection, Pollack drove into the left turn lane at the light to make his left turn. As he attempted to make his turn, Jonathan Vargas, who was traveling northbound on Tampa in the middle lane, struck him.

Pollack sued Vargas for motor vehicle negligence, claiming injuries.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Pollack claimed Vargas was speeding and ran a red light at the intersection when he struck Pollack's vehicle. An eyewitness in the left turn lane on Devonshire testified that the events occurred the way Pollack claimed.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Vargas contested Pollack's allegations, arguing he entered the intersection on a yellow light and that Pollack failed to yield the right of way.

Settlement Discussions

The plaintiff demanded $7,000; the defendant offered $4,000.

Damages

Pollack's vehicle incurred $10,531.22 in damages, whereas Vargas' vehicle was a total loss. Pollack sought damages for his medical bills in the amount of $3,870, plus $10,000 in pain and siffering.

Injuries

Pollack complained of soft tissue, neck, and back injuries.

Result

The jury returned a verdict for the defense.

Deliberation

one hour

Poll

12-0

Length

three days