Northern California Accident Attorney Blog

ALAMEDA - A 13-year-old Alameda boy tragically died Monday, hours after he was struck by a car while riding his bicycle, Fox Reno and other news outlets reported. The accident occurred at about 3:50 p.m. on May 16, 2011. According to news reports, the victim, Brandon Sorensen, 13, was riding his bicycle near Santa Clara Avenue and Everett Street when he was involved in a collision with a vehicle. Sorensen was taken to Children's Hospital in Oakland, where he died of his injuries.

Cause of the Alameda Bicycle Accident

Based on the limited information provided in news accounts, it is not clear what exactly happened. Police will surely look at the speed of the vehicle, the right-of-way at the intersection, and the direction of both the bicycle and the vehicle in determining what happened. The cause of the accident was unclear and an investigation is ongoing by the Alameda Police Department. Anyone with information regarding the fatal bicycle accident is asked to contact Alameda police Lt. Sean Lynch at (510) 337-8424.

Bicycle Accident Wrongful Death Liability

If authorities determine that the driver of the vehicle is responsible for the collision, he or she may be liable for the wrongful death of the young bicyclist, in addition to possible criminal charges for negligent driving. While this incident remains under investigation, a skilled Oakland bicycle accident lawyer could advise the victim's family about their legal rights and options to hold the driver and any other at-fault parties accountable. An attorney who has represented families of fatal bicycle accident can provide answers, options, and support in a free legal consultation regarding a wrongful death claim.