Lanning v. State Highway Commission

TMs is an action in tort for negligence. The issues presented relate to defendant-appellant Highway Commission’s and its engineer’s defense of immunity.

Thomas Creek flows from the Western Cascade Mountains through Linn Connty before entering the South Santiam Biver. On January 20 and 21, 1972, heavy rains raised the level of Thomas Creek and considerable amounts of slashing, tree trunks and debris were carried in the flood waters. The assorted debris accumulated on the supports of Schindler Bridge which carries State Highway 226 across the creek several miles east of Scio. At the height of…