4 Kids Hit by Car in Placentia, CA | Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp

The Hartford Courant reports that four students were hit by a car while walking home from school in Placentia, California (CA) on Monday, January 24th, 2011. The accident occurred at approximately 2:30 p.m.

The students were walking home from school when they stopped on the northeast corner of Golden and Valencia. The driver of a Toyota Prius was pushed up onto the curb after hitting a Toyota Sienna traveling southbound on Valencia. The Sienna made a left turn in front of the Prius, which was traveling northbound. The Sienna remained in the intersection after the crash.

The Prius struck the four children, and trapped one, a 12 year-old, under the car. Firefighters had to use airbags to lift the car off the boy. According to Fire Captain Greg McKeown, the victim was taken to UCI Medical Center in Orange County, where it was determined that he had severe fractures in both legs. His injuries, however, are not considered life-threatening.

A second 12 year-old victim was taken to Western Medical Center in Santa Ana, and the 7 year-old victim to Placentia-Linda Hospital in Placentia. Both those boys are in good condition. The fourth victim, an 11 year-old, was released to his parents.

The accident is still under investigation.

Although we are grateful that none of the boys’ injuries are life-threatening, this was still a terrifying and painful accident for them all. It must have their parents terribly upset as well. Whenever you are making a left turn while driving, make sure that it is an appropriate time to do so. If there is a light, wait until it is green (it is not ideal to go through a yellow light), and that there is no oncoming road traffic that might cause a collision.

If you would like to discuss legal options regarding your accident case, call a qualified attorney.

IW