Layla carelessly ran a red light and struck Fred, a pedestrian, all in full view of several bystanders. When Fred sued Layla for damages, all the witnesses testified that Layla did indeed run the light. Nevertheless, the jury found Layla not negligent and not liable for the injuries. The judge, however, responding to a motion from Fred's attorney, found Layla to be negligent and liable, on the basis of the evidence presented at trial. Which of the following statements best describes the judge's action? A. an appeal judgment, or a judgment in absentia B. an improper action; Fred (or Fred's attorney, on Fred's behalf) should have appealed to a higher court C. summary judgment directed verdict D. judgment n.o.v