(Bakersfield, CA) An 8th Street crash resulted in the death of Le’anna Sterling, a 1-month-old baby, in Central Bakersfield.
On Sunday, August 24, at about 7:31 p.m., the 8th Street crash occurred. According to the Bakersfield Police Department, it happened at the intersection of 8th Street and T street.
Upon investigating, police learned a woman drove a silver sedan northbound on T Street. Meanwhile, a man drove a red pick-up truck westbound on 8th Street. All of a sudden, both vehicles collided. When officers arrived at the 8th Street crash, they found the pick-up truck and the sedan. Police identified a passenger in the sedan as Le’anna Sterling, an infant who sustained severe injuries.
Paramedics transported Sterling to a hospital for further treatment. Unfortunately, Le’anna Sterling died from the crash. Both drivers declined medical aid, remaining at the scene and cooperating with the investigation. Police have ruled out impairment as a factor. Le’anna Sterling’s family set up a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses.
Legal Opinion on the 8th Street Crash
The 8th Street crash raises various legal concerns. California law places responsibility on drivers to obey traffic rules and yield properly at intersections. California Vehicle Code 21802 requires drivers approaching a stop sign to yield to vehicles that are close enough to be a hazard. Similarly, VEH 21804 requires drivers entering or crossing a roadway to yield until it is safe. Additionally, VEH 22350, the Basic Speed Law, requires drivers to travel only at speeds safe for conditions. Even if within the posted limit, failing to slow down when approaching a potentially busy intersection can be considered negligence. Police will carefully review whether one of the drivers failed to yield or entered the intersection without proper caution.
What the Family Can Do
Le’anna Sterling’s family has the right to bring a wrongful death claim under California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60. This law allows parents to seek compensation for funeral expenses, emotional loss, and the profound impact of losing their child. A wrongful death attorney can help by obtaining the official police report and reviewing any surveillance or traffic camera footage near the intersection. Accident reconstruction experts can also determine which driver had the right of way. The insurance policies of either or both drivers may provide compensation, depending on fault.
Because this tragedy involves the loss of a child, courts often give special consideration to ensure the family receives the financial resources and justice they deserve. While no legal action can ease the heartbreak of losing Le’anna Sterling, pursuing a claim can provide accountability and help the family cover the heavy burdens that follow such a devastating loss. Early legal action will also preserve critical evidence, giving the strongest chance for justice.
We at Accident News Now offer our encouragement and support. We know this is a confusing time as you deal with the uncertainties resulting from this terrible incident. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
