A severe motor vehicle collision has prompted a resident of Los Angeles County to seek legal recourse against another county resident, alleging negligence and negligence per se. The complaint was filed by Susan Marie Denardo in the Superior Court of California for the County of Ventura on June 10, 2024, naming Phillip Lehman Shiver as the defendant.
The incident at the heart of this case occurred on July 22, 2022. According to the complaint, Denardo was driving westbound on Los Angeles Avenue when Shiver allegedly ran a red light while traveling northbound on Christine Avenue. This resulted in a collision that left Denardo with significant injuries to her neck, shoulders, and lower back. "PLAINTIFF suffered serious and permanent bodily injuries as a result of the collision," states the complaint. Denardo's legal team asserts that Shiver's actions were not only negligent but also violated California Vehicle Code Section 21453(a), which mandates that drivers must stop at red lights.
Denardo is represented by Ardy Pirnia from Pirnia Law Group. The plaintiff claims that Shiver's reckless behavior has caused her ongoing physical pain and mental anguish, severely disrupting her daily life and ability to work. The lawsuit also names ten unidentified defendants referred to as "DOES 1 to 10," who are believed to be partially responsible for the incident. "PLAINTIFF will hereafter ask leave of Court to amend this Complaint to show said defendant’s true name and capacities," reads the document.
In terms of relief, Denardo is seeking general damages exceeding $35,000, along with compensation for medical expenses, loss of future earnings capacity, interest on damages as allowed by law, and other costs incurred during litigation. She is also demanding a jury trial for all causes of action stated in her complaint.
The case has been assigned Case No.: 2024CUPA025733 and will be overseen by judges from the Superior Court of California for the County of Ventura. Representing Denardo is attorney Ardy Pirnia from Pirnia Law Group.