Santa Cruz, CA – According to KSBW, an 82-year-old woman, identified by her daughter as Helen “Pookie” Hines, has died after being hit by a man on an electric bicycle early Friday morning, September 27, 2024, on Opal Cliff Drive. Hines was said to be on her regular morning walk when the incident occurred around 5:50 AM.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that an 80-year-old man from Santa Cruz was riding his e-bike on the right shoulder of Opal Cliff Drive, traveling at an unknown speed. For reasons still under investigation, the bike collided with Hines, who was walking nearby. Hines suffered major injuries and was airlifted to Valley Medical Center, where she later passed away.
Her daughter, Cindy Diola, described Hines as the “matriarch of the family,” a vibrant and loving woman known for her kindness, grace, and devotion to her family. Diola noted that her mother had regularly walked Opal Cliff for 25 years.
The man involved in the collision was also injured and taken to Dominican Hospital. The CHP is investigating the cause of the crash, though drugs and alcohol are not believed to be factors at this time.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a specific “Duty of Care” towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for pedestrians near the roadway and, if a fatal collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
If the at-fault driver avoids legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
