SANTA PAULA, CA (AUGUST 22, 2023): 68-year-old Vickie Stevens was killed while using her wheelchair at an intersection in Santa Paula on Wednesday, August 16.
According to the Santa Paula Police Department, the incident occurred at around 2 p.m. at the crossing of Steckel Drive and Harvard Boulevard. Stevens was in her wheelchair when a pickup truck fatally struck her in the intersection.
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Paramedics discovered Stevens pinned under the vehicle and administered first aid. She was initially rushed to Ventura County Medical Center, but then airlifted in critical condition to a hospital in Los Angeles.
Unfortunately, Stevens succumbed to her injuries and died Thursday evening.
The driver of the pickup, a 31-year-old man, was arrested on DUI suspicion and causing great bodily harm.
Authorities continue to investigate details regarding this collision.
Liability In Santa Paula Pedestrian Accidents
Thousands of pedestrians are killed or seriously injured every year in pedestrian accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control, “An estimated 137,000 pedestrians were treated in emergency departments for nonfatal crash-related injuries in 2017. Per trip, pedestrians are 1.5 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to be killed in a car crash.” There are a number of factors that could lead to a pedestrian collision including:
- Speeding
- Drunk driving
- Driver distraction
- Inclement weather
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians. The family of any victim that died in a pedestrian collision may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating The Death of Vickie Stevens
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Vickie Stevens. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to police. There needs to be some accountability for what happened.
Have you or someone that you care about been injured in a pedestrian accident? Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need assistance after an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.
