Hier v. State of California, et al.

Facts: Plaintiff was surviving mother and grandmother of 25 year old son and two grandchildren, ages 3 years and 10 months, who perished when their vehicle left State Route 18 in the San Bernardino Mountains enroute to Big Bear Lake, and tumbled several hundred feet down the mountainside.

Contentions: Plaintiff contended that Caltrans caused the accident by configuring SR 18 with lanes that were too narrow and likely resulted in a conflict between the vehicle of the decedents and another car on a curving portion of the so-called “Rim of the World Highway”. Plaintiff further contended that Caltrans failed to provide a necessary embankment guardrail (which was installed after this crash and prior to trial). Plaintiff claimed the loss of care, comfort, affection, etc. of her son and grandchildren.

Opposing Counsel: Caltrans was represented at trial by Staff Attorney Kay Corrigan from its Los Angeles office.

Plaintiff’s Technical Expert: Traffic Engineering and Accident Reconstruction – Harry Krueper.

Demand, Offer and Verdict: Plaintiff demanded $1.5 Million; Caltrans’ offer was $0; Verdict $2 Million.