Trial Magazine

San Bernardino County Sheriff Michael Andrade turned left at an intersection in a department-owned vehicle. He turned in front of Florencio Munguia’s sedan, and the two collided. Munguia, 65, suffered cervical and lumbar spine injuries, necessitating cervical fusion surgery. He continues to experience pain and is unable to play with his grandchildren as he once did. His medical expenses were $255,000.

Munguia sued the county, alleging vicarious liability for Andrade’s negligence. The plaintiff did not claim lost income.

The jury awarded more than $11.06 million.

Citation: Munguia v. Cnty. of San Bernardino, No. CIVDS1900106 (Cal. Super. Ct. San Bernardino Cnty. Aug. 22, 2023).

Plaintiff counsel: AAJ member Daniel Kramer and Brandon Salumbides, both of Los Angeles.

Plaintiff expert: Rami Hashish, biomechanics, Los Angeles.