Orange County Car Accident Lawsuit Settled for $250K

Case Background

Plaintiff Hyojin Choi lived in Orange County. On February 18, 2023, she drove south on I-5 near Alton Parkway in Irvine. On April 11, 2023, she later traveled near Valley View Street and Orange Avenue in Cypress. Defendants included Michael Chen, Yichong Tang, and Xiuying Li. She also named Does 1–25 for unknown roles. The Superior Court of Orange County received her unlimited civil complaint.

Cause

On February 18, 2023, Michael Chen allegedly operated, owned, entrusted, and maintained a vehicle negligently. He drove on southbound I-5 near Alton Parkway. His conduct allegedly violated Vehicle Code §§21703 and 22350. The actions caused a collision with Choi.

On April 11, 2023, Yichong Tang and Xiuying Li allegedly owned, operated, entrusted, and maintained another vehicle negligently. They drove near Valley View Street and Orange Avenue. Their conduct allegedly violated the same code sections. Choi claimed both crashes occurred close in time. The injuries overlapped, creating doubt about apportionment. She also alleged negligent servicing and inspection by unknown parties.

Injury

Choi sustained physical injuries in the February crash. Symptoms continued into April. The April collision allegedly exacerbated the same body regions. She experienced increased pain and suffering. Functional limits affected daily activities. Treatment and evaluation followed both incidents.

Damages

Choi claimed medical expenses and hospital costs. She sought future medical care and diagnostics. She alleged wage loss and reduced earning capacity. She also requested general damages for pain and suffering. She asked for interest and costs as permitted by law.

Key Arguments and Proceedings

Legal Representation

Plaintiff(s): Hyojin Choi

Counsel for Plaintiff: Carpenter & Zuckerman | Steven L. Mazza

Defendant(s): Michael Chen | Xiuying Li | Yichong Tang

Counsel for Defendants: Richard M. Ozowski | Gregory J. Bramlage

Claims Asserted

Count 1 – Motor Vehicle (Feb. 18, 2023) against Michael Chen and Does 1–25.

Negligent operation, ownership, entrustment, and maintenance on I-5 in Irvine. Alleged Vehicle Code violations and negligent service by Does.

Count 2 – General Negligence (Feb. 18, 2023) against Michael Chen and Does 1–25.

Negligent hiring, supervision, and training. Negligent operation caused injuries and losses.

Count 3 – Motor Vehicle (Apr. 11, 2023) against Yichong Tang, Xiuying Li, and Does 1–25.

Negligent operation, ownership, entrustment, and maintenance near Valley View and Orange. Alleged negligent service by Does.

Count 4 – General Negligence (Apr. 11, 2023) against Tang, Li, and Does 1–25.

Negligent hiring, supervision, and training. Second crash exacerbated prior injuries. Apportionment remained in doubt due to overlapping harm.

Defense

Defendant Michael Chen denied all allegations and liability for Plaintiff’s injuries or damages. He asserted that Plaintiff’s claims failed to state a cause of action and were barred by applicable statutes of limitations. He further argued that Plaintiff’s own negligence, lack of caution, and voluntary assumption of risk contributed to the accident and barred or reduced recovery. Additionally, he claimed that Plaintiff’s alleged damages resulted from intervening or superseding causes, including the acts of other parties, rather than his conduct.

Chen also raised several specific defenses. He alleged that Plaintiff failed to mitigate damages and aggravated her injuries. He invoked Proposition 213 (Civil Code § 3333.4), limiting recovery due to Plaintiff’s alleged uninsured status, and argued Plaintiff’s failure to wear a seat belt contributed to her injuries. He further maintained that any liability rested primarily with Plaintiff, precluding recovery against him. Ultimately, he demanded judgment in his favor, costs of suit, and a jury trial.

Settlement

The parties resolved the dispute through settlement, with Defendant Michael Chen agreeing to pay Plaintiff $250,000 in full and final settlement of all claims arising from the incident, thereby avoiding further litigation and trial.

Court Documents

Court documents are available for purchase upon request at jurimatic@exlitem.com