A 49-year old La Habra woman riding her bicycle was struck and killed by a Foothill Transit bus Tuesday night, the Whittier Daily News reported. The April 20th Orange County accident occurred at 8:28 p.m. at the intersection of Beach Boulevard and La Habra Boulevard. The Orange County Sheriff Coroner identified the victim as Annette Ferrin-Rodgers. According to reports, the Foothill Transit bus was heading south on Beach Boulevard before it made a left turn onto La Habra Boulevard. Ferrin-Rodgers was in the crosswalk when she was struck by the bus, which was estimated to be going between 15 to 20 mph.
No passengers were on board the bus at the time of the crash. The driver of the bus took a drug and alcohol test, per US Department of Transportation guidelines for any collision involving injury or death. The driver is now on administrative leave while the accident is under investigation.
The Whittier Daily News reported that Annette Ferrin-Rodgers had worked with the U.S. Postal Service for more than 20 years. Our deepest sympathy goes out to the family her and everyone who knew and loved her. Please keep her family in your prayers during this surely very difficult time.
Liability Issues in Bus vs. Bicycle Accidents
If it is determined that the driver of the Foothill Transit bus caused or contributed to this fatal accident in La Habra, the driver, along with Foothill Transit, may be held liable for Ferrin-Rodgers' wrongful death. The family of the victim of this accident would likely benefit from speaking to a California wrongful death attorney experienced with the legal issues of bicycle accidents who can closely monitor the official investigation, and determine and protect the family's legal rights. While this investigation is ongoing, the family should keep in mind that it is best not to give statements to investigators or adjustors or sign any documents until they have at least spoken with an attorney.
Sources: Whittier Daily News
Rest in peace, Annette. You will be dearly missed.