07.16.2012
A San Mateo County juror returned a verdict of 3.5 million in non-economic damages in a wrongful death case against Caltrans on Thursday, July 12. The jury found Caltrans 75% liable for failing to follow its own tree risk assessment policies in identifying and removing a large Eucalyptus branch overhanging a heavily traveled section of Highway 92 connecting to Highway 101 in San Mateo County. Lisa Fellini, a 47 year old single mother, was killed when the tree branch crashed onto her car in August, 2009. The plaintiffs, her three children, Danielle, Kyle and Chris, were awarded 1.5 million for past losses and 2 million for future losses. Carol Bauss assisted the trial team.