An auto accident in Springfield Township resulted in the death of a 6-year-old and multiple injuries among other vehicle occupants on Tuesday night.
Just before 10 p.m., the two children were riding in a 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix being driven by Shalita Chess. According to police, Chess failed to yield the right of way at at the intersection of North Hill Lane and Winton Road. A Chevy Blazer being driven by Scott Barnes crashed into Chess’s vehicle at the intersection.
The two children were not in booster seats at the time of impact. Both of the victims were transported to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. The youngest child passed away, the cause remains unknown but reports indicate that it may have been from traumatic arrest. The other child is still in the hospital in serious condition. Chess’s condition is unknown.
Police allege that Chess did not have a valid license at the time of the crash and she could face charges. Roads near the intersection where the collision occurred were closed for at least an hour.
In 2013, more than 7,500 children under the age of 15 were injured in motor vehicle accidents in Ohio. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration suggests that children under the age of seven be situated in a forward-facing car seat with a harness and tether until he or she reaches the top height or weight limit suggested by the car seat manufacturer. After age eight, a child should use a booster seat until or she is big enough to fit in a seat and be belted properly.
At O’Connor, Acciani & Levy, our personal injury attorneys believe that the safety of a child in a motor vehicle is of the utmost importance. If someone you love has been injured in a car crash caused by a careless driver, our car accident lawyers can help you get the justice you deserve.