A 4-year-old child was revived after a crash that left two vehicles submerged in Rattlesnake Creek near Spy Rock Road and US 101 in Humboldt County on Friday afternoon, December 13, 2024.
According to the California Highway Patrol, Todd M., 47, of Garberville, was driving a Toyota 4-Runner northbound on US 101 during a rainstorm when the vehicle hydroplaned, overturned, and collided with a southbound Toyota Rav4 driven by Anthony F., 56, of Philo. Both vehicles slid off the roadway and landed upside down in the creek.
Good Samaritans Barrett Thomas and Abram Hill stopped to assist after noticing debris on the highway. Officials said the 4-year-old child from the Toyota 4-Runner was unresponsive when pulled from the water.
Hill and Thomas performed CPR on the child in the rain, reviving them before emergency services arrived. The child was transported to Howard Memorial Medical Center and later transferred to UC Davis Medical Center, where they are expected to make a full recovery.
CHP confirmed all other occupants sustained minor injuries. The crash remains under investigation.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.