The results of an investigation into a tragic bicycle accident that killed a young girl almost two months ago in Novato revealed that the cause was her failure to yield to oncoming traffic.
The accident, which took place on September 27th, occurred as 12 year old Hailey Ratliff rode her bicycle into active lanes of Novato Boulevard near San Marin Drive without yielding to a fast approaching SUV, which crashed into her.
She was taken to Novato Community hospital in critical condition, and then flown to Children’s Hospital in Oakland where she was later pronounced dead as a result of her injuries. The driver of the SUV, a large white GMC Enclave, was unhurt.
Hailey was a student at Sinaloa Middle School and had just moved into the area with her family.
An in-depth investigation that included witness interviews, skid mark analyses, toxicology tests, and accident reconstructions was immediately launched to determine the cause of the crash, with its conclusion stating that “the bicyclist entered a roadway without yielding the right of way to an approaching vehicle”. The report was then forwarded to a local district attorney for review.
“Few things are as heartbreaking as the loss of a child,” said Novato police Chief Jim Berg in a statement released on Tuesday. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends during this difficult time… Accidents such as this reaffirm the city’s ongoing commitment to help make out community safer for everyone.”
“We at the city are saddened by the loss of anyone as a result of a traffic accident,” added Berg. “This tragic event is a reminder to all that traffic safety is a shared responsibility among motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians.”
If you or someone you know has been hurt in an accident such as this resulting from a failure to yield the right of way, you should seek help. Depending on the circumstances that led to your ordeal, you may be entitled to compensation from those at fault to help cover the financial burden your damages may have inflicted.
With the help of an experienced San Jose accident lawyer, you can recover the full amount that you are rightfully owed to help pay for things like medical bills or car repair payments.
At AA Accident Attorneys, we can help explain your options and lead you through the complicated legal process. As always, we will not charge you anything for our services until your case is won. Call us today for a free evaluation and to learn how our accident lawyers can best help you onto the road to recovery!
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