Featured Verdict: Auto v. Motorcycle

Larson v. O’Reilly (Ventura Cty Super Ct. No. 56-2018-00518091-CU-PA-VTA): On February 6, 2020 a jury entered a verdict in favor of plaintiff Joel Larson in the amount of $615,000 and against defendant Brigid Mary O’Reilly. Plaintiff had part of his foot amputated after being involved in a collision while riding his Ducati motorcycle where he was struck by a head-on vehicle driven by Plaintiff. Defendant admitted liability but contested the $13.6 million of damages sought by Plaintiff. Plaintiff argued that his quality of life was substantially impacted, and that the injuries would require continuous treatment. Defendant argued that the damages were exaggerated and noted that Plaintiff continued to ride his motorcycle even after the accident. Plaintiff was represented by Carpenter Zuckerman & Rowley. Defendant was represented by the Law Offices of Wolf, O’Connor & Myers.