Facts

In January 2001, plaintiff Barbara Mills was driving in Sacramento. Plaintiff Theresa Butler was in the front passenger seat. Defendant Jodie Ellis was driving in the same direction. At an intersection, the defendant's vehicle came into contact with plaintiffs' vehicle. The plaintiffs brought an action against the defendant, claiming motor vehicle negligence.

PLAINTIFFS' CONTENTIONS:
The plaintiffs contended that the defendant was in the lane to the right of plaintiffs; that the defendant made an illegal left turn and collided into plaintiffs. A witness from a third car corroborated plaintiffs' assertions of what happened.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
The defendant denied liability, claiming that when she turned left, the plaintiff did not make an obligatory left turn.

Specials in Evidence

Plaintiff Butler sought $3,800. Plaintiff Mills sought $35,800.

Damages

Plaintiff Butler sought an unspecified amount to cover pain and suffering.

Injuries

The plaintiffs suffered from soft-tissue injuries to their necks and backs, and they underwent chiropractic treatment. According to defendant's chiropractic and orthopedic experts, plaintiff Mills' medical records indicated that she had in the past complained of lower back pain.

Result

The jury found for defendant.

Deliberation

50 minutes

Poll

12-0 (rejecting liability)

Length

three days