Sandhar v. Ghuman
Bhavanveer Sandhar
Law Firm / Organization
Brij Mohan & Associates
Lawyer(s)

Rajeev Patro

Anhed Bali
Law Firm / Organization
Not Specified
Lawyer(s)

M. Bauer

Harakaranbir Ghuman
Law Firm / Organization
Bekkering York Barristers LLP
Atinderpal Singh Ghuman
Law Firm / Organization
Bekkering York Barristers LLP
Joshua Allen Curtis
Law Firm / Organization
Brownlee LLP
Lawyer(s)

Zhou Fang

Arman Brar

Parin Banu Valji
Law Firm / Organization
Unrepresented

Background:
After spending the day at Cultus Lake, where alcohol was consumed, the group headed back in the evening. Mr. Ghuman did not appear intoxicated. At around 10:45 p.m., Mr. Curtis passed the Range Rover due to its inconsistent speeds. He re-entered the lane closely in front of the Range Rover. In response, Mr. Ghuman tried to pass the Nissan on a double solid line, lost control, and crashed, injuring the occupants.

Legal Issues and Arguments:
Key issues included whether Mr. Curtis contributed to the accident by returning too close to the Range Rover and whether Mr. Ghuman’s actions were negligent. Mr. Ghuman argued he reacted to an emergency (the "agony of collision"). Mr. Curtis claimed Mr. Ghuman’s reckless passing attempt broke the chain of causation (novus actus interveniens).

Findings and Apportionment:
The court found Mr. Ghuman 80% at fault for dangerous passing and Mr. Curtis 20% at fault for re-entering the lane too closely and not slowing sooner.

Awards:
No damages or award amounts were specified, as the trial focused on liability.

Supreme Court of British Columbia
M201801
Tort law
Defendant