Federated Mutual Insurance Company et al. v. Caitlin Cole (2012)

MEMORANDUM OF DECISION

This matter comes before the Court as a hearing in damages, the defendant having failed to appear.   The statutes for service of process have been complied with and the defendant is not in the military service.

On or about February 11, 2010, the defendant drove into a gas pump located at Zlotnick's Garage at 187 Willimantic Road in North Windham, Connecticut.   In doing so she damaged a safety valve at one of the pumps.   The purpose of the valve is to shut off the flow of gas to avoid or limit a gasoline fire.   Although she told the proprietor that the pump didn't work, she immediately drove off.   Her identity was traced by the credit card she used in an attempt to get gas.   The police were called and she acknowledged hitting the pump.   The police report indicates her father agreed to make restitution (he however, is not a party).

Zlotnick's insurance carrier, Federal Mutual Insurance Company, paid for the repairs to the safety valve, which was $6,395.   The policy had a $500 deductible.

Judgment shall enter for the plaintiff in the amount of $6,895.   The plaintiff may submit a bill of costs.

Klaczak, J.T.R.

Klaczak, Lawrence C., J.T.R.