Karlin v. Massachusetts Turnpike Authority

The plaintiff was seriously injured when the motor vehicle she was operating on June 11, 1979, on the Massachusetts Turnpike left the paved highway, struck a guardrail, and went down an embankment. She brought this action against the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority (Authority) alleging its negligence with respect to the guardrail. She has stated in an affidavit that, due to her injuries, she is unable to recall how the accident happened.

A judge of the Superior Court allowed the Authority’s motion for summary judgment and immediate entry of judgment in favor of the Authority. The judge filed…