Bakersfield, CA (November 13, 2024) – On Wednesday, a tragic accident claimed the life of 13-year-old Jeremiah A. Villalobos in Bakersfield.
Accident Details: At approximately 2:54 p.m., Jeremiah was riding his bicycle south near the intersection of Columbus and Loyola streets when struck by a westbound vehicle on Columbus Street. The driver involved stayed at the scene and fully cooperated with authorities. Preliminary investigations revealed no suspicion of speed, alcohol, or drug involvement in the incident. Jeremiah was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries less than two hours later.
A vigil held Thursday brought together family and friends to honor Jeremiah’s life. His loved ones raised concerns about the lack of crosswalks in the area, calling for action from public officials to improve pedestrian safety.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination.
Road Safety: The lack of crosswalks near the collision site raises questions about infrastructure safety. Public entities responsible for roadway design and maintenance could face liability if it is determined that the absence of crosswalks or other pedestrian safety measures contributed to the collision. California law imposes a duty on municipalities to ensure that roads and intersections are reasonably safe for all users, including cyclists and pedestrians. If safety deficiencies are found, the city or county could be held accountable for failing to address known hazards.
Other Factors: Additionally, investigators may examine whether proper signage, visibility, and traffic controls were in place.
Depending on the results of the investigation, Villalobos’s family may be able to file a wrongful death claim and recover compensation for the financial and emotional consequences of their loss.
The tragic loss of Jeremiah Villalobos is profoundly heartbreaking, and my deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and the Bakersfield community. I hope his loved ones find strength during this challenging time.
Source: Bakersfield Now