On Dec. 12, 2014, plaintiffs’ decedent Matthew Bretzing, an employee of the Los Angeles County Probation Office in his 50s, was driving on East La Palma Avenue, in Anaheim, when a trailer detached from a truck owned by Mendoza Trucking Transportation Inc. and operated by its employee, Trinidad Valenzuela, who was traveling in the roadway ahead of Bretzing. The detached trailer ultimately coming to a stop in the road, and Bretzing collided with the stationary object. Bretzing sustained multiple traumatic and died. The decedent’s estate, represented by his wife (Robbin Bretzing) and sons (Chad Bretzing, Jeffrey Bretzing, Kevin Bretzing, and Matthew Drew Bretzing), brought a claim against Mendoza Trucking Transportation Inc. and Valenzuela. The decedent’s family alleged that Valenzuela was negligent in the operation of the tractor-trailer and that Mendoza Trucking was vicariously liable for Valenzuela’s actions. Plaintiff’s counsel contended Valenzuela’s trailer was not properly attached to the tractor prior to the vehicle leaving a nearby post office depot. Counsel argued that as a result, the trailer became detached and created a dangerous condition in the roadway that ultimately caused the decedent’s wrongful death. Defense counsel contended that the detached trailer was outfitted with reflective white decals that made it visible to drivers on the road and that many other drivers were able to drive around the detached trailer without issue. Thus, counsel argued that the decedent was negligent for failing to see the obvious condition in the roadway and take appropriate action to avoid it. Defense counsel further argued that the decedent’s decision to not wear a seat belt at the time of the incident enabled his death., Matthew Bretzing sustained multiple, severe, traumatic , including blunt force trauma. He was subsequently transported by ambulance to a local hospital, but was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival. Bretzing was survived by his wife and four adult children. Thus, the Bretzing family sought recovery of wrongful death damages, including economic loss. Defense counsel did not actively dispute damages.