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Tourist Awarded $18.8M After Being Struck by Park Volunteer's Vehicle
Monterey County jury finds California State Parks liable for negligent training and supervision of volunteer driver
Published on Mar. 3, 2026
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A former Providence, Rhode Island city councilmember was awarded $18.8 million by a Monterey County jury after she was struck by a vehicle driven by a California State Parks volunteer in 2023, suffering catastrophic injuries including 20 broken ribs and a traumatic brain injury. The jury found the state negligent in training and supervising the volunteer driver.
Why it matters
This case highlights the responsibility of state agencies to properly train and supervise volunteers who interact with the public, even if they are not official employees. The large settlement amount underscores the severity of the victim's injuries and the state's failure to ensure public safety within its parks.
The details
In June 2023, Helen Anthony, a Providence city councilmember, was visiting Point Lobos State Natural Reserve when she was hit by a vehicle driven by a state park volunteer while crossing a marked crosswalk. Anthony suffered 20 broken ribs and a traumatic brain injury that will permanently impact her quality of life. The state argued it was not responsible since the driver was a volunteer, but the jury found the state negligent in training and supervising the volunteer.
- On June 10, 2023, Anthony was struck by the vehicle in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
- The Monterey County jury reached its $18.8 million verdict on February 28, 2026.
- Anthony resigned from the Providence City Council on August 1, 2025 to focus on her recovery.
The players
Helen Anthony
A former Providence, Rhode Island city councilmember who was struck by a vehicle driven by a California State Parks volunteer in 2023, suffering catastrophic injuries.
Roger Dreyer
The attorney who represented Helen Anthony in the lawsuit against the State of California.
California State Parks
The state agency responsible for the volunteer driver who struck Helen Anthony, which the jury found negligent in training and supervising its volunteers.
What’s next
The California State Parks department has stated it is evaluating its legal options following the $18.8 million jury verdict against the state.
The takeaway
This case highlights the importance of state agencies thoroughly training and supervising their volunteers to ensure public safety, even for those not officially employed. The large settlement amount underscores the severe consequences that can result from negligence in this area.
