(Elk Grove, CA) A 3-year-old girl died in a Point Pleasant Road crash after a car backed out of a driveway and struck her.
On Sunday, September 7, at about 3:44 p.m., the Point Pleasant Road crash occurred. According to the California Highway Patrol, it happened when dispatchers received reports of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle on Point Pleasant Road.
Upon investigating, authorities learned that a 29-year-old woman had been backing her Nissan out of a driveway around 3:40 p.m. Meanwhile, a 3-year-old girl and a 33-year-old man stood behind the vehicle. The woman then struck the 3-year-old while backing up. Family members at the scene immediately called 911. Crews from the Cosumnes Fire Department arrived and performed life-saving measures before transporting the child to a hospital. Despite their efforts, doctors pronounced her dead shortly after arrival. Authorities confirmed alcohol and drugs did not appear to play a role in the Point Pleasant Road crash. The South Sacramento CHP office continues to investigate.
Legal Opinion on the Point Pleasant Road Crash
The Point Pleasant Road crash is a heartbreaking incident involving the tragic death of a young child. California law places strict duties on drivers to exercise caution, especially when backing up in areas where pedestrians may be present. One key law is California Vehicle Code 22106, which prohibits a driver from backing up a vehicle unless it can be done safely and without interfering with other traffic. Since the driver struck a child standing directly behind the vehicle, investigators will examine whether she failed to ensure the path was clear before reversing.
Another relevant statute is California Vehicle Code 21950, which requires drivers to yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing the roadway. While this collision occurred in a driveway, the principle of yielding and exercising due care applies whenever a pedestrian is present. Because this crash resulted in the death of a child, her family has the right to pursue a wrongful death claim under California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60. This allows close relatives to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and the emotional devastation caused by losing a loved one.
What the Family Can Do
The grieving family should contact a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can review the CHP report of the Point Pleasant Road crash. They can also examine the driver’s statements and determine whether negligence occurred. Accident reconstruction experts may also be able to assess how the crash unfolded and whether the driver took appropriate precautions before backing up. While criminal charges may not yet be determined, a civil wrongful death case can still move forward. This type of claim may help cover funeral costs and provide financial support to the family as they cope with this devastating loss.
Though no amount of compensation can replace their child, legal action may bring accountability and a measure of justice. Quick action will also ensure that crucial evidence from the Point Pleasant Road crash is preserved.
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim. We know this is a difficult time as you mourn the tragic and sudden loss of a loved one. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this horrible incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
