Flores ran a signal near 2nd Avenue, causing a vehicle to strike a child at the crossing
November 19, 2025 | Spokane, WA
Authorities in Spokane, Washington, reported a serious pedestrian incident involving a child on Nov. 19.
A driver allegedly under the influence ran a red light, leading to a chain-reaction crash that struck the young pedestrian at the intersection of South Walnut Street and 2nd Avenue.
What Happened in the Crash?
Rodolfo Flores, 45, was charged with DUI and vehicular assault after running a red light and causing a vehicle to hit a child pedestrian in Spokane.
The accident unfolded when 45-year-old Rodolfo Flores reportedly failed to stop at a red light. His vehicle collided with another car, forcing it off the road and into the path of a child crossing the street. Emergency responders arrived quickly at the downtown location.
- Date and Time: Nov. 19, 2025, in the evening hours.
- Location: Intersection of South Walnut Street and 2nd Avenue, Spokane, WA.
- Vehicles Involved: Flores' vehicle T-boned another sedan, which then impacted the pedestrian.
- Injuries: The child sustained multiple fractured ribs and lacerations to the spleen; treated at Sacred Heart Children's Hospital. No other serious injuries reported.
- Suspect: Rodolfo Flores, arrested at the scene.
The child's identity remains private due to age and privacy protocols.
Why Do These Accidents Happen?
Impaired driving remains a leading cause of pedestrian injuries nationwide. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol-related crashes injure approximately 300,000 people annually in the U.S. Common factors include poor judgment, diminished reflexes, and failure to obey traffic signals.
Factor |
Impact on Crashes |
Source |
|---|
Alcohol Impairment |
Reduces reaction time by up to 30% |
NHTSA |
Red Light Violations |
Involved in 22% of intersection crashes |
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) |
Pedestrian Vulnerabilities |
Children under 15 at higher risk |
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) |
Overall Annual Injuries |
1.9 million from vehicle incidents |
NHTSA |
These statistics underscore the preventable nature of such tragedies, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement and public awareness.
Legal Insights
National legal analysts provide perspective on handling incidents like impaired driving collisions. Their guidance focuses on broader implications for accountability and victim support.
“In cases such as this, separate from any criminal proceedings, those affected may pursue compensation via civil action against the at-fault driver,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal and a national analyst for Newsline. “Beyond police investigations, legal representation can involve re-examining witness statements, reviewing security footage, and securing communication records from the responsible individual. This approach ensures that impaired drivers face appropriate consequences while supporting those harmed.”
- Evidence Preservation: Prompt attorney involvement helps collect critical data before it degrades.
- Accountability Measures: Civil claims can address medical expenses, lost income, and emotional distress.
- Victim Advocacy: Professional guidance navigates complex insurance processes compassionately.
“Efficiency is crucial in these situations to thoroughly assess evidence,” added Bond. “Legal support protects rights and interests during recovery.”
Additional contributors like Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal, highlight the challenges posed by insurance providers in personal injury scenarios.
Potential Personal Injury Claims
Following the ongoing investigation, the injured pedestrian could qualify for a claim covering medical bills, therapy, wage losses, and psychological effects. Professionals note that insurers often minimize payouts, making skilled representation essential to secure fair outcomes.
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(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)
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If you, a friend, or a family member has been injured by a hit-and-run or drunk driver, contact national legal analyst Candice Bond for a free consultation.
(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).