(Oakland, California) A child driver hit a vehicle and a pedestrian without an adult present in the vehicle. The pedestrian was walking her dog across an intersection before getting struck.
The child driver is a juvenile who was operating the vehicle. Inside was also his juvenile brother who’s under the age 10. Before striking the female pedestrian, the child driver lost control and hit a vehicle. From then on he hit the pedestrian who’s in her 30s. The woman was taken to a hospital and is currently in critical conditions.
One of the two children was in stable conditions but sustained a broken leg, while his brother sustained a concussion.
One witness named Lavelle Shah- Marquise told KGO, that the airbag in the vehicle deployed strongly which led the child to fly to the back.
The witness saw the pedestrian on the floor, and said she seemed to be lifeless.
The children’s parents were asleep while they took the keys of the vehicle. The Oakland Police Department confirmed that they have contacted the parents regarding the situation.
Analysis on Child Strikes Pedestrian While Driving a Vehicle
Investigators may look into the Obligation Imposed By Law code, 1714.1 (a) to determine if the parents have violated laws in not stopping the child from driving. This law states the following violations in which it states: any act of willful misconduct of a minor that results in injury or death to another person, or injury to the property of another shall be imputed “guardian having custody and control of the minor for all purposes of civil damages, and the parent or guardian having custody and control shall be jointly and severally liable with the minor for any damages resulting from the willful misconduct.” This law connects with this case due to the 7 year old and 4 year old who’s under the care of the parents.
Because those children were not legal to drive the vehicle, with or without an adult, investigators may review the Violation of License Provisions law. This code states the following violation, that no one should cause or permit his child, ward or employee below the age of 18 to drive a vehicle on a highway unless the child, ward or employee is licensed under this code.
Advice for the Family
If you have lost a loved one in this incident, staying in contact with the Oakland Police Department 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 pedestrian 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.
