Trial News

As Romulo Rufo, 51, was traveling to work on an interstate highway, on-duty drug enforcement agent Albert Smith hit him from behind. Rufo was transported to a hospital, where he underwent imaging studies. A week later, he developed dizziness, vision problems, and cognitive difficulties and was subsequently diagnosed as having a mild traumatic brain injury resulting from the collision. He continues to suffer from headaches, vertigo, and balance issues, among other problems, and is unable to work or drive. He had been a land services agent earning $70,000 annually.

Rufo and his wife sued the United States, alleging liability for Smith’s negligent driving. The plaintiffs claimed that Smith was distracted at the time of the crash.

The court awarded $4.09 million, including more than $288,200 for past lost earnings and $500,000 for loss of consortium.

Citation: Rufo v. United States, 2020 WL 968973 (C.D. Cal. Feb. 28, 2020).

Plaintiff counsel: Eric Traut, Santa Ana, Calif.

Please set a Datasource.