Our 63-year-old client, a self-employed plumber and part-time musician, sustained serious injuries and significant financial losses due to the negligence of a Caltrans highway worker who lacked proper supervision and training.
Details of the Caltrans Accident
On September 20, 2016, at 11:00 a.m., our client was driving westbound on I-580 north of Castro Valley in Alameda County. He was traveling in the #1 (fast) lane when a vehicle ahead of him abruptly changed lanes without signaling. This maneuver revealed a stopped Caltrans truck directly in his path. Despite immediate evasive action, our client collided with the left rear end of the Caltrans truck. His vehicle slid to a stop on its side, 130 feet from the impact point.
The Caltrans truck driver had failed to activate any warning equipment (flashing lights, arrow boards) as required by California Department of Transportation policies. Furthermore, the driver’s supervisor had not instructed the maintenance crew to implement proper work-site procedures.
Case Facts and Medical Treatment
Our client was transported to Eden Hospital Medical Center in Castro Valley for emergency trauma care. He sustained a traumatic brain injury, a non-displaced left ulnar fracture, embedded glass shards, and an exposed arm bone.
He and his wife sought legal counsel from GJEL Accident Attorneys, asking:
- Could the State of California be held responsible for his injuries?
- Could they recover all damages resulting from the accident?
Legal Advocacy and Settlement
Initially, Caltrans attorneys claimed our client was inattentive and struck a moving vehicle with operating warning lights. However, GJEL attorneys conducted an extensive investigation, identifying two independent eyewitnesses who corroborated the client’s account: the Caltrans truck was stopped without warning lights.
GJEL attorneys also worked with expert consultants to confirm that Caltrans policies and procedures had been violated, countering the Caltrans supervisor’s testimony.
Our client underwent surgery to repair the ulnar fracture and remove glass shards. The traumatic brain injury resulted in memory loss and significant business losses.
After depositions and expert analysis, Attorneys Andy Gillin and Jim Larsen secured a $250,000 settlement before trial.
Key Case Details:
Injuries: Traumatic brain injury, left arm fracture, embedded glass shards.
Insurance Company: State of California
Accident Location: I-580 north of Castro Valley, unincorporated Alameda County
Police Report: CHP
Vehicles: Toyota Tundra pickup, Caltrans maintenance truck (International)
Medical Facilities: Eden Hospital Medical Center
This case underscores the critical importance of holding government entities accountable for their negligence, especially when it severely injures innocent individuals. Our client, a hardworking plumber and musician, suffered life-altering injuries due to the Caltrans worker’s failure to adhere to established safety protocols.
GJEL Accident Attorneys’ relentless pursuit of the truth and their ability to gather compelling evidence and expert testimony successfully countered Caltrans’ initial attempts to deflect blame. This outcome provided our client with much-needed financial compensation and a powerful reminder that no one is above the law.
Navigating the complexities of claims against government agencies requires specialized knowledge and unwavering dedication. GJEL Accident Attorneys’ proven track record of successfully challenging government negligence demonstrates their commitment to protecting the rights of injured individuals.
Their ability to secure a $250,000 settlement before trial highlights their proficiency in negotiating favorable outcomes, even in cases involving powerful entities. This case is a testament to the firm’s unwavering dedication to achieving justice for its clients.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to the negligence of a government employee or agency, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance. Contact GJEL Accident Attorneys today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our experienced team will thoroughly evaluate your case, answer your questions, and fight tirelessly to protect your rights.
We understand the challenges of dealing with government entities and are committed to helping you secure the compensation you deserve. Let us help you navigate the legal process and ensure your voice is heard. Talk to an experienced GJEL Accident Attorney, call us at +1 415-986-4777, or visit our Fresno office for a free legal consultation.
Andy Gillin received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of California at Berkeley and his law degree from the University of Chicago. He is the managing partner of GJEL Accident Attorneys and has written and lectured in the field of plaintiffs’ personal injury law for numerous organizations. Since 1972 he has been helping seriously injured victims throughout northern California fight & win their personal injury cases. Andy is one of the top awarded & recognized wrongful death lawyers in northern California.