the owner of a self-propelled riding mower had just started the engine to mow his front lawn when the clutch of the mower suddenly engaged, causing it to lurch forward rapidly and throw him off. by the time the owner caught up with the mower, it had started into the street. a motorist swerved to avoid the mower and struck a tree on the opposite side of the street. an investigation revealed that the sudden shift of the clutch was caused by a defective gear in the transmission. if the motorist brings a negligence action for personal injuries and property damage against the owner, will she prevail?
