On Dec. 5, 2019, plaintiffs’ decedent Gerald Richardson, 57, a fabricator, was driving north on Reed Avenue, in Fresno. As he entered the intersection with Adams Avenue, his sport utility vehicle broadsided a tractor-trailer operated by Jeremy Crank, who was making a left turn from southbound Reed Avenue onto Adams Avenue. Richardson died at the scene. Richardson’s wife, Brooke Richardson, and two sons, Daniel Richardson and Riley Richardson, sued Crank and Crank’s employers, JCT Trucking Inc. and JAG Transportation Inc. The lawsuit alleged that Crank was negligent in the operation of his vehicle and that JCT Trucking and JAG Transportation were vicariously liable for Crank’s actions while operating the tractor-trailer in the course and scope of his employment. Plaintiffs’ counsel contended that Gerald Richardson had the right of way and that Crank made a negligent left turn in front of Richardson’s vehicle, causing the fatal collision., Richardson sustained traumatic and died at the scene. He was survived by his wife, Brooke Richardson, 49; a minor son, Daniel Richardson, 16; and an adult son, Riley Richardson, 19. Gerald Richardson was not ejected from the vehicle, but it was disputed whether he was wearing his available lap belt and, if he was not, whether it would have made a difference in his death. The Richardson family claimed they suffered a financial loss as a result of Gerald Richardson’s death, and they sought recovery of $508,394.58 in economic damages (at present value). They also sought recovery of wrongful-death damages for the loss of Richardson’s service, love, companionship, comfort, affection, society, solace and moral support.