California Injury Blog
An 8-year-old boy is in critical condition after he was injured in a Santa Ana pedestrian accident the evening of May 24, 2009, The Orange County Register reports. The boy, who has not been identified, was playing with several friends just before the Santa Ana car accident occurred. He apparently stepped onto Hickory Street and was struck by a southbound Toyota Previa, Santa Ana police officials said. The pedestrian accident occurred near Bishop Street. The boy was taken to an area hospital and is said to have suffered critical personal injuries.
My heart goes out to the parents of this child and his friends, the other children, who saw him get hit by the truck on the street. I hope that this boy has a speedy and complete recovery. I can only imagine the strain this family must be going through. Please keep this young victim and his family in your prayers.
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2007 Statewide Integrated Traffic Reporting System, there were nine fatalities and 127 injuries involving pedestrian accidents in Santa Ana. In all of Orange County, 41 deaths and 726 injuries were reported in 2007 as a result of pedestrian accidents.
The newspaper account mentions that police are still deciding whether to press charges against the driver of the Toyota Previa. I trust they are looking into whether this person was driving recklessly or driving under the influence or alcohol or drugs. Was he traveling at a high rate of speed or over the speed limit in such a way that he could not stop in time to avoid hitting the boy? Was the driver distracted in some way such as texting or talking on the cell phone? All these are important issues to look into.
The family of the injured boy would be well advised to consult with experienced Orange County pedestrian accident attorneys, who will analyze the facts of this case and make sure that negligent parties are held accountable. If this Orange County pedestrian accident was the result of a dangerous roadway, then the city of Santa Ana or the governmental agency responsible for maintaining that roadway could be held liable. Please remember that any claim against a California governmental agency must be filed within six months of the accident/injury.