Released on: May 28, 2008, 9:45 am

Press Release Author: John Bisnar

Industry: Law

Press Release Summary: On May 8, 2008, A California court approved a $15 Million
settlement in a municipal negligence claim against the City of Hanford, Ca.,
involving a bicycle-automobile accident. Jupiter Chan sued Hanford on behalf of his
son, Christopher, who sustained a traumatic brain injury when he was struck by a car
while riding his bicycle. The Chans' alleged that Hanford was negligent in
maintaining the roadway and providing appropriate signage. Hanford settled with
Christopher Chan for a lifetime stream of payments in excess of $15 million.
California personal injury law firm Bisnar Chase represented Christopher Chan in the
Superior Court of California, Kings County, Case Number 06C0206.

Press Release Body: A California court recently approved a $15 Million out-of-court
settlement of a municipality negligence claim against the City of Hanford, Ca.
Jupiter Chan sued Hanford on behalf of his son, Christopher, who sustained a
traumatic brain injury when he was struck by a car while riding his bicycle. The
Chans' allege that Hanford was negligent in maintaining the roadway and providing
appropriate signage. The week before trial, Hanford settled out-of-court with
Christopher Chan for a lifetime stream of payments of $15 million. California
personal injury law firm Bisnar Chase represented Christopher Chan in the Superior
Court of California, Kings County, Case Number 06C0206.

On May 31, 2005, 14-year-old Christopher Chan was riding his bicycle when he was hit
by an automobile at the intersection of 11th Avenue and Pepper Drive. According to
court documents, before the accident Chan was a vibrant, inquisitive and intelligent
eighth-grader. Now he has no short term memory; has the verbal and visual ability of
a 6-year-old; focuses on simple tasks for only 15 minutes at a time; and needs an
attendant to help him with his everyday physical needs.

According to the lawsuit, this intersection was hazardous to school children
crossing to and from school due to its physical makeup, no effective controls and no
signage or crossing guard. Hanford's records showed the city was aware of these
dangerous conditions but did not correct them.

Hanford settled with Christopher Chan for $15 million paid over his lifetime to
cover his past and future medical expenses; therapy and round-the-clock care for the
rest of his life. The court signed this agreement May 8th.

"Such a tragedy, that a traumatic brain injury has robbed Christopher Chan of a
self-sufficient and productive life," said Brian Chase, partner in Bisnar Chase.
"This wouldn't have happened if the elected officials of Hanford were doing their
jobs by ensuring the public's safety. This case should serve as a warning to other
elected city officials: do your jobs."



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