Pedestrian Hit by Van Receives $19 Million Compensation

A woman who was struck by a van at a pedestrian crosswalk has come forward after receiving a substantial compensation award. Helen Anthony, a Rhode Island resident, was awarded $19 million by a Monterey County jury for injuries she sustained when a state park volunteer ran her over at Point Lobos State Preserve in June 2023.

Expressing her appreciation for the jury’s decision, Anthony stated, “I am grateful to the jury for taking the time to hear all the evidence for a month.” She seemed genuinely touched by the process.

Video footage of the incident reveals the moment the driver, an 82-year-old volunteer, accidentally pressed the accelerator instead of the brake, leading to the collision.

“This was completely unbelievable. Not only that, but the state actually threatened us with a letter saying they would only compensate us if we dropped this frivolous lawsuit. I mean, it’s just shocking,” Anthony remarked. Her lawyer contended that the state should be held responsible since the volunteer was driving a park vehicle and lacked adequate training.

After a month-long trial and a day and a half of deliberation, the jury sided with Anthony, granting her compensation for pain, suffering, and lost wages. At the time of the incident, she was serving as a state lawmaker and attorney in Rhode Island, and her injuries have affected her ability to fulfill her professional responsibilities.

In response to the verdict, California State Parks issued a statement, saying they respect the jury’s judgment and extend their condolences to Anthony and her family for the injuries incurred at the park. Meanwhile, the Park Service is contemplating an appeal regarding the nearly $19 million ruling.