Bell v Parwn, Miller-Jones Mortuary (12/95)

Plaintiff Lawyer: Boyd F. Jensen II

Facts: Plaintiff, Bell, was a motorcycle escort for the Miller-Jones Mortuary in Hemet California. During one procession to the local cemetery

three non precession vehicles got into the line and one of them turned into Plaintiff. He was not seen by this person because he was traveling

70 m.p.h. in a posted 45 zone and was traveling on the wrong side of the street going the wrong way. Plaintiff argued that he should have

had another escort to assist him. The police report was adverse to him. The jury rendered a verdict for $1,799,000 and held Plaintiff, Bell,

85% at fault. His net verdict was $266,850 about $100,000 more than the defendants were ever willing to offer!!!

Damages: Multiple fractures and internal injuries.

                                                                                                            Medical Loss: $550,000

                                                                                                        Loss of Earnings: $100,000

                                                                                                     General Damages: $2,000,000

                                                                                                      Jurisdiction: Riverside County

                                                                                                                  Judge: V. Miceli

                                                                                                      Plaintiff's Demand: $600,000

                                                                                                      Defendant's Offer: $170,000

                                                    Verdict: $266,850 Net, reduced from $1,799,000 for 85% negligence of Plaintiff.