On Dec. 1, 2017, plaintiff Selim Helvacioglu, a product designer in his 30s, was driving on South Martel Avenue, near its intersection at West Third Street, in Santa Monica. While he was proceeding through the intersection, his vehicle’s right side was struck by a vehicle that was being driven by Lawrence Madaras, who was traveling on West Third Street. Helvacioglu claimed that he suffered an injury of his neck. Helvacioglu sued Madaras. The lawsuit alleged that Madaras was negligent in the operation of his vehicle. Helvacioglu claimed that a green traffic signal permitted his entrance to the intersection. He claimed that Madaras ignored a red signal. Defense counsel conceded liability. The trial addressed damages., Helvacioglu claimed that he suffered a herniation of his C5-6 intervertebral disc. He underwent administration of epidural injections of steroid-based painkillers. Helvacioglu claimed that he suffers residual pain and limitations. He claimed that he requires replacement of his C5-6 disc. He sought recovery of future medical expenses, and he also sought recovery of damages for past and future pain and suffering. Defense counsel contended that Helvacioglu’s injury predated the accident. The defense’s expert orthopedist opined that the C5-6 disc was desiccated and that Helvacioglu does not require surgery.