(Douglas County, Oregon) A 13 year old boy dies after a 2021 Ram 2500 pickup towing a 17 foot boat was crossing a center line and collided head on with a 2012 Ford F350 pickup.
Oregon State Police confirmed that the 13 year old boy died on the scene, while the driver named Everett Ratledge, 56, was airlifted by Life Flight to the hospital. Both individuals were in the 2012 Ford F350 pickup vehicle.
Jason Paden, driver of the 2021 Ram 2500 pickup vehicle, was with two passengers. All three were sent to the hospital with critical injuries.
Analysis on Ram 2500 and Ford F350 Pickup Vehicles
If the driver illegally crossed a center line on a two or a four lane street, then investigators may review ORS 811.310 . This specific law discusses that anyone crossing on a two or four lane street is a penalty.
If the driver did not appropriately turn on the street then the investigators may review ORS 811.310. This violation is about turning left improperly on a three lane, and is a penalty.
Another violation that may be the one investigators look at the most is ORS 811.380. This law is about improperly using a center lane on a three lane road as a penalty. This code law relates more to this collision because Paden did cross the center lane and caused a collision. This lead up to injuries and death. This may show that there was an improper use on his part crossing the center line and it was in a three lane way.
If investigators find out that it was Everett at fault, they may review ORS 811.275. This law is about yielding to a vehicle approaching an uncontrolled intersection. If Paden was supposed to wait and yield to the Ramp vehicle in an uncontrolled intersection, then they may receive a penalty.
Advice for the Family
If you have lost a loved one in this incident, staying in contact with the Oregon State Police can help you receive more information from the investigation. You can request official reports when they become available to better understand the circumstances.
You may also consider speaking with a qualified legal professional experienced in truck accident cases. They can help explain your options and guide you through next steps. In addition, seeking support from family, friends, or grief counseling services can provide comfort during this difficult time.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
