Bond

I.

STATEMENT OF THE CASE

In a first amended complaint, plaintiffs named Dooley and Htrans (together,

Dooley defendants); and Gonzalez and his employer, Overland Transport & Logistics,

Inc. (Overland) (together, Gonzalez defendants) in multiple causes of action. In their

respective answers, the Dooley defendants and the Gonzalez defendants alleged an

affirmative defense based on the negligence of plaintiffs or others.

The Dooley defendants asserted a cross-complaint against the Gonzalez

defendants for indemnity and contribution, and the Gonzalez defendants asserted a cross-

complaint against the Dooley defendants for indemnity and declaratory relief.

Alleging that it was Bond's employer at the time of the accident and had become

liable to pay more than $250,000 to or on behalf or Bond as a result of the injuries he

sustained in the collision, YRC Worldwide sought and was granted leave to intervene.

The trial court granted the Gonzalez defendants' motion to bifurcate and try the

issues as to liability prior to the issues as to damages.

At trial, the parties, though counsel, presented opening statements, called

witnesses, introduced evidence and gave closing…