Opinion ID: 1657126
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Vegetation

Text: The Railroad argues that the evidence was insufficient to demonstrate that the vegetationa line of trees parallel to the trackobstructed the view of plaintiff Barlett. The evidence is clearly sufficient. Photographs demonstrated that a driver will not see a train approaching the crossing until the driver passes the line of trees. The driver of the car behind Barlett testified that her view was obstructed. The Railroad engineer testified that he could not see Barlett's car until it passed the trees. From these facts, a jury could reasonably infer that the vegetation obstructed Barlett's vision. The Railroad also argues that the instruction was contrary to Barlett's trial theory. While at times Barlett focused on the engineer's point-of-view, this focus was not exclusive. The verdict director on vegetation was not inconsistent with Barlett's trial theory. In addition, the Railroad did not raise this objection in its motion for new trial or at trial. Therefore, it is not preserved for review. Rule 70.03.