Trial Magazine

Sara Moscoso, 43, was entering a five-lane freeway when she was broadsided by a vehicle operated by Rodney Gustafson, who allegedly swerved from the middle lane into Moscoso’s lane. Moscoso, who had to be extracted from her vehicle, suffered a closed-head injury, bulging disks at C4-5 and C7-T1, and post-traumatic stress.

Moscoso underwent injections and spinal surgery to treat her injuries but continues to experience memory problems. Her medical expenses exceeded $432,800. She left her job as a waitress and was out of work for 21 months, incurring lost income of $107,000.

Moscoso filed suit against Gustafson, alleging negligent operation of his vehicle. The defendant admitted liability but disputed the nature and extent of the plaintiff’s damages.

The parties settled for $1.3 million.

Citation: Moscoso v. Gustafson, No. 20STCV00158 (Cal. Super. Ct. Los Angeles Cty. May 7, 2021).

Plaintiff counsel: AAJ member Daniel E. Hoffman and Michael Avenesian, both of Glendale, Calif.