Kathleen Bonner v. City of Menlo Park, Shaughnessy McGehee
Published: Jun. 23, 2007 | Result Date: Feb. 8, 2007 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |Case number: CIV 452721 Bench Decision – Defense
Court
San Mateo Superior
Attorneys
Plaintiff
Defendant
Lee J. Danforth
(Coddington, Hicks & Danforth APC)
Facts
On her way to the grocery store, plaintiff Kathleen Bonner, 78, was knocked to the ground after being hit by a car driven by defendant, Shaughnessy McGehee, as he was travelling northbound on University Drive, in Menlo Park. The plaintiff sued McGehee for negligent operation of a motor vehicle and the city of Menlo Park for premises liability. After accepting a settlement offer through McGehee's insurance, Bonner pursued her claim against Menlo Park.
Contentions
PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Bonner argued the city had placed a stop sign in a dangerous position in the northbound lane of University Drive. She claimed this caused McGehee to not notice the stop sign before hitting her.
DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Menlo Park argued that even if the stop sign was improperly placed, McGehee admitted he stopped in the middle of the intersection and looked before he hit Bonner.
Specials in Evidence
Bonner sought $400,000 in past medical bills.
Damages
Bonner requested an unspecified amount in damages for past and future pain and suffering.
Injuries
Bonner suffered a bruised hip and a broken leg. She was admitted in the hospital and stayed at convalescent homes for three months to undergo surgeries and physical therapy.
Result
The judge granted Menlo Park's motion for summary judgment.
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