Long Beach Grand Prix Assn. v. Hunt

Opinion

JOHNSON, J.

Does the doctrine of res judicata bar one defendant from seeking equitable indemnity from a second defendant after the plaintiff voluntarily dismisses her complaint with prejudice as to the second defendant? We hold the answer is no.

Facts and Proceedings Below

Kathleen Young was involved in an automobile accident in the City of Long Beach. She was taken to a local hospital where she was treated by Dr. Robert Hunt. Following Dr. Hunt’s exploratory surgery on her knee, Young developed thrombophlebitis and, later, symptoms of nerve deficit.

Young filed suit against the driver of…