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In Orange County, Plaintiff Gilvana was involved in a rear-end collision with Defendant Diego, who admitted liability.
The incident occurred as both parties were exiting a commercial parking lot. Gilvana was driving a Lexus RX 350 SUV, while Defendant was operating a Ford F-150. The impact was to the rear of Gilvana’s vehicle, affecting the trunk and bumper. No police or emergency personnel responded to the scene.
The day after the accident, Gilvana retained counsel and began treatment with a chiropractor. Her medical care escalated to include a lumbar epidural injection and ultimately a lumbar decompression surgery at L4-L5. Despite these claims of injury, evidence at trial showed that Gilvana continued attending kickboxing classes for approximately one year after the accident and did not miss any time from work.
Prior to trial, Defendant offered the policy limits of $50,000 to settle the case. Gilvana rejected the offer and instead demanded $500,000, exceeding policy limits. At trial, she sought $903,000 in damages.
The jury awarded Gilvana $6,000 for past medical expenses and $3,000 for past pain and suffering, for a total verdict of $9,000.
Following trial, Defendant submitted a cost bill totaling $58,631.93. After offsetting the jury award, the court entered judgment in favor of Defendant in the amount of $49,632.
Gilvana v. Diego, Orange County Superior Court, October 21, 2025, Hon. Kimberly Knill
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