Donaldson v. Rowan

Circuit Court of Jackson County, Missouri, Docket #: 99CV216209

Judge: Lee E. Wells

Bradley Nielsen, attorney for defendant Jay Rowan.

Type of Claim: Automobile Accident. Plaintiff, female, age 72, said she was stopped at a red light at the intersection of North Oak Trafficway and Vivian when she was rear-ended by defendant. Defendant argued comparative fault, claimed the plaintiff stopped suddenly for a yellow light. There were no eyewitnesses. Photographs of the cars and x-rays were used as demonstrative evidence.

Damages Alleged: Soft tissue injuries to lower back (lumbar) and unoperated vertebral fracture at L-4; bladder control problems.

Plaintiff’s Experts: None presented.

Defendant’s Experts: Lowry Jones, Jr., M.D., orthopedic surgery.

Demand Before Trial: $25,000.

Offer Before Trial: $15,000.

Verdict: Plaintiff 50% at fault and defendant 50% at fault. Awarded $0 actual damages.