2-Year-old Baby Milo Injured In Accident With Falling Redwood Tree In Boulder Creek
SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS, CALIFORNIA (February 28, 2023) – A 2-year-old baby named Milo was injured after a huge redwood tree fell onto his family’s home in Boulder Creek.
Santa Cruz County officials are saying that the accident took place during a winter storm. Baby Milo was inside the home with his parents Zachary Smith and Catherine Smith.
A large redwood tree fell onto the home and trapped six people inside. Firefighters and paramedics were called to the Boulder Creek home in order to help all of the victims.
Milo was taken to a hospital before being transported to the Santa Clara Valley Medical Center. He is recovering from surgery and may need to undergo additional surgeries.
A full investigation into the accident remains ongoing at this time.
Liability For Boulder Creek Accidents Involving Falling Trees
Accidents involving falling trees may seem extremely unusual, but they are actually very common. According to The Weather Channel, “A study published in 2008 found that 407 people were killed by “wind-related tree failures” in the U.S. between 1995 and 2007.” While wind often plays a role in trees falling over, there are many other factors that could contribute to a tree collapsing.
- A tree’s root system might have a compromised structure due to disease.
- The tree might have become structurally unstable due to insect damage.
- A tree might lose structural stability due to cavities or holes in the tree.
Depending on the facts of any case, a county or city could be liable for an injury caused by a falling tree. Pursuant to California Government Code 835, a public entity could be liable for a dangerous condition on public property. A dangerous condition may exist if the trees on public property are not being properly cared for and are prone to falling over. County officials will typically need to hire a certified arborist to inspect the trees in public areas and identify trees that are in a dangerous condition. When a county or city fails to remove trees that are in a dangerous condition, this could form the basis of a negligence claim. There are many steps that should be taken after any accident with a falling tree.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- The tree that fell over should be studied.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- A thorough investigation should be conducted.
Any person that is injured by a falling tree may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. Many accident victims may not realize the full extent of their injuries for several weeks or months after an accident. A premises liability attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A California Car Accident
We at TorkLaw extend our best wishes to Milo and his family as he continues to recover. It is our sincere hope that steps are taken to prevent other accidents like this. Many accidents involving falling trees are completely preventable.
Have you or someone that you care about been injured in an accident with a falling tree? There are a number of laws designed to protect your rights. Our team of consumer safety advocates are here for you. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support after an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991.
