Ryan v. Westgard

Michael K. Westgard, defendant, appeals a jury verdict of $145,000 awarded in favor of Ronald P. Ryan, plaintiff, for injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

On February 22, 1972, at approximately 10:25 p.m., the plaintiff was driving a 1968 Volkswagen north in the center lane of Interstate 5. His speed was approximately 60 m.p.h. He had been following the vehicle immediately in front of him for some time at a distance of 100 feet or better when he saw it suddenly change lanes. Immediately apprehensive, the plaintiff also attempted to change lanes but could not because of traffic. In the…