A Teacher's Fight for Safety and Justice
Justine Gurrola, a special education teacher from California, recently secured a record-breaking settlement after a fall that altered her life. The incident occurred in Whittier in 2018, and the case has just concluded with a significant victory for Gurrola.
The Fall and the City's Neglect
Gurrola was walking in Whittier when she tripped on a broken sidewalk. The city of Whittier has agreed to pay her $7.5 million, a record amount for a sidewalk accident in California. Her lawyer, Nick Rowley, stated that the city was fully at fault and had ignored complaints about the sidewalks for years. Tree roots had made the sidewalks uneven, and the city failed to address the issue.
Severe Injuries and Ongoing Pain
Gurrola suffered serious injuries, including:
- A broken wrist
- A broken elbow
- A broken nose
- Injuries to her knees, neck, and back
- A mild brain injury
She has been in constant pain since the fall.
The Trial and the Verdict
The trial lasted five weeks, and the jury determined that the city was at fault. Rowley argued that the city lacked proper inspection rules and emphasized that public safety extends beyond police and firefighters—it also includes maintaining safe sidewalks.
Gurrola's Message
Gurrola spoke to NBC 4 about the case, stating that it wasn't just about the money. She wanted to ensure that no one else gets hurt due to neglected sidewalks. While she loves Whittier's trees, she stressed that they can be dangerous if sidewalks aren't properly maintained.
City's Response
The city of Whittier and the state of California did not comment on the case. Gurrola's story underscores the importance of public safety and the challenges faced by victims of neglect.
