(Oakland, California) A woman in her 30’s now identified as Kiara Bowling, was struck by a vehicle on August 6th driven by a child is now fighting for her life.
One of her family members, Davis, told Eyewitness ABC7 stating “I just found out she has blood on her brain. She has to probably get two surgeries”.
The two occupants of the white sedan vehicle, 7- and 4-year-old brothers are still treated at a hospital. The 7-year-old has two fractured legs. The 4-year-old is still suffering from a concussion. The vehicle was speeding down 35th avenue when it hit Bowling.
One told Eyewitness ABC7 “Unfortunately, I think these parents need to be held responsible. This is ridiculous.”
Bowling has a whole life ahead of her as she was selected as Miss California Regency International 2026. She came back to Oakland after completing a summer program in Yale University. She hopes to become a lawyer in the future.
Perspective on White Sedan Vehicle Crash
When minors are under the responsibilities of their parents and negligence or wrongful acts are involved, investigators may take a look at the Civil Liability of Person Signing License Application of Minors law, code (17150) and Obligation Imposed by Law. These laws may help investigators identify whether the parents were negligent to their children that led up to striking Bowling.
This law states the following: “Every owner of a motor vehicle is liable and responsible for death or injury person or property resulting from a negligent or wrongful act or omission in the operation of the motor vehicle, in the business of the owner or otherwise, by any person using or operating of the motor vehicle, in the business of the owner or otherwise, by any person using or operating the same with the permission, express or implied, of the owner.”
This law plays a big factor in regard to investigators identifying whether the parents allowed their children to use their vehicle or not. In this case, the parents were asleep. There have been no mention that the parents allowed the children to drive their vehicle. In this case, the parents may not be liable in this incident.
If the parents were liable, investigators may review the Obligation Imposed by Law, code 1714 (a). This section states one of the following violations “Everyone is responsible, not only for the result of his or her willful acts, but also for an injury occasioned to another by his or her want of ordinary care or skill in the management of his or her property or person” this section may determine if the parents should be held liable for their children’s mistake. They may have been careless in regard to placing their keys in a safe environment to avoid such situations like this.
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.
