Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
CLOVIS — A 2013 traffic accident involving Clovis Police Department Officer Adriana Munoz will cost the city $118,324.40, according to a ruling issued this week by District Judge Fred Van Soelen.
Cecilia Martinez, the other driver in the Jan. 10, 2013, accident, filed a civil suit for medical expenses, damage to her vehicle and pain and suffering.
According to court records:
• A vehicle driven by Martinez, then Cecilia Quintana, was southbound on Prince and made a left turn onto Fourth. It was struck at the intersection by a police car driven by Munoz. The cruiser was traveling around 25-30 mph, and airbags deployed in Quintana’s vehicle.
• A burrito and a hot sauce packet were in the front seat of Munoz’ vehicle. The officer admitted eating while driving, as she had worked a long shift without an opportunity for a meal break.
According to Van Soelen’s ruling, Martinez will receive:
• $1,284 for medical care the day of the accident
• $37,234.72 for treatment four days after the crash, after complaints of head and back pain and passing out prompted a hospital visit.
• $454.10 for 10 days’ lost wages
• $1,261.58 for damage to her vehicle
• $78,000 for pain and suffering.
“(We are) very satisfied with the ruling,” said Tye Harmon, Martinez’ attorney. “It’s definitely in line with the medical attention she needed, and the pain and suffering.”
Harmon said during a hearing last week on the matter that Martinez had back spasms and migraines over the years following. While Martinez had migraines before the incident, she said she had more intense migraines along with frequent occasions where she lost consciousness.
The court didn’t find convincing evidence to that effect, and opted not to award damages for any medical visit after Jan. 16, 2013.
City Manager Larry Fry, and Capt. Roman Romero of the CPD declined comment on the case