Featured Verdict: City of Los Angeles Hit With $22m Verdict After Pedestrian Suffered TBI Injury

Ismael Soto Luna v. City of Los Angeles (Los Angeles Super Ct. No. 22STCV01171): On November 5, 2023 a jury awarded a verdict of $22m to plaintiff Ismael Soto Luna and against the City of Los Angeles in a premises liability matter. On November 14, 2022 Plaintiff was crossing the street at the intersection of Noble Avenue and Roscue Boulevard in Van Nuys, when a 2 pound aluminum light pole cap fell off of a light pole, striking him in the head, resulting in a fractured skull and traumatic brain injury. Plaintiff eventually developed dementia after the injury. Plaintiff alleged that the light poles became dangerous over time as the screws holding them eventually loosened, creating a dangerous condition. Defendants denied all liability, contenting that there was no duty to inspect the caps, and that it was unforeseeable that such an incident could occur. Plaintiff was represented by the Law Office of Haytham Faraj. Defendant was represented by the Office of the Los Angeles City Attorney.