Anna Reznik from Gilroy, who was gravely injured in a 2009 car accident on Highway 101, has won a settlement of $4.55 million. The settlement comes from the estate of the other driver, the state of California, and Monterey County. The largest portion is a $3.75 million payment from Caltrans, who was sued for maintaining a dangerous roadway.
The accident occurred on January 20th, 2009 in Monterey County. Reznik was driving with 92-year-old Olga Tarcher southbound on the 101 not far from the Red Barn, when another driver pulled in front of her vehicle while trying to turn into the northbound lane.
The high-speed collision killed Tarcher and left Reznik seriously injured. She broke most of the bones from her pelvis to her feet, sustained a massive brain injury, and was bedridden for six months requiring constant care. The other driver Yong Ae Bowman survived the crash.
After multiple surgeries, Reznik is now able to walk with a walker and can drive short distances. In part as a result of this accident the precarious San Juan interchange is going to be reconstructed. The project went before the state Transportation Commission for funding late last month. According to the California Highway Patrol, this intersection is one of the most dangerous in Monterey County.
Dangerous roadways and road defects such as damaged asphalt or poor signage cause many accidents in California each year. Cases against a government or federal entity require swift and aggressive action. These claims must be filed with a court much sooner than regular injury accidents. If you or a loved one have been injured under such circumstances, please contact an experienced attorney today.
Bergener & Associates provides free consultations. Call 1-800-881-2021 or visit our website at www.bergenerlaw.com.
