On April 9, 2011, at around 2 p.m., plaintiff Yun Kim, 21, a student, was a passenger in a vehicle that was traveling on the 110 Freeway in Los Angeles when her vehicle was rear-ended by a vehicle operated by Gary Stevens. Kim claimed a back injury as a result of the accident. Kim sued Stevens and the owner of Stevens’ vehicle, Clarissa Lipardo. Kim alleged that Stevens was negligent in the operation of his vehicle and that Lipardo was vicariously liable for Stevens’ actions. Stevens did not dispute liability for the collision., At the scene, Kim complained of pain to her face and head. She subsequently presented to a hospital the following day for treatment of her and was diagnosed with a 9-millimeter disc herniation at L5-S1. Kim ultimately underwent a microdiscectomy on Dec. 18, 2012. Kim claimed she had a good outcome from the surgery. Thus, she sought recovery of $135,000 in past medical costs and an unspecified amount for her past pain and suffering. Defense counsel disputed the extent, nature and cause of Kim’s alleged injury.