The bicyclist was struck near El Camino Real and Accolti Way, authorities say
SANTA CLARA, CA, (November 21, 2024) - A young man riding his bicycle to attend a class at Santa Clara University on Thursday was fatally hit by a car in front of the school grounds, police said.
(Kephas Pope: GoFundMe)Kephas Pope, 18, was struck and killed by a motor vehicle while riding his bike to Santa Clara University just before noon Thursday, according to authorities.
Tragically, 18-year-old Kephas Pope, a member of the college’s Class of 2027, died from injuries.
According to Santa Clara police, Pope was hit near El Camino Real and Accolti Way just before noon by a vehicle traveling southbound. The driver reportedly stopped at the scene, police said, adding the events leading up to the incident were currently under investigation.
A GoFundMe page has been created—by Pope's father—to raise funds for funeral costs.
The investigation is underway.
CRASH INVESTIGATION NEEDED
Unfortunately, bike deaths are occurring all over the country. Of these deaths, the bulk happens in California, Florida, Colorado and New York. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 1,105 cyclists died in motor vehicle accidents in 2022, accounting for an 11% increase from the previous year.
Candice Bond, an experienced bicycle accident attorney, noted that it is imperative to have an independent probe conducted as soon as possible to preserve evidence in cases such as this.
“Having the proper resources is extremely important when investigating a bicycle accident case and demonstrating that there was negligence on the part of another party,” said Bond, Managing Partner of Bond Legal.
“In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney has the resources to interview expert witnesses, conduct defendant background checks, and review applicable insurance coverage,” added Bond.
WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM
Pending the results of any investigations, the family members of Kephas Pope may pursue a wrongful death claim. Survivors often seek damages for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident.
Bond, who is also a National Legal Analyst for Newsline, said, “Grieving families of victims are sometimes overwhelmed by the legal processes that are in place to protect their rights. An attorney can be a valuable and compassionate resource to help guide a family during this difficult time and ensure that those left behind receive the restitution they are entitled to.”
Newsline's national legal analyst Candice Bond is experienced in fatal bicycle accidents, and if you or a family member need help she's available for a free consultation to guide you.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).