A devastating traumatic brain injury suffered by a beloved Palo Alto school administrator has sparked an outpouring of support from educators, students, and families across the Bay Area after a late-night hit-and-run in San Francisco’s Mission District.
Erika Yeates, 32, a Menlo Park resident and dean of academic affairs at a private school in Palo Alto, remains hospitalized after being struck by a vehicle Friday night while crossing a street with friends.
What Happened in the Mission District
According to witnesses, the crash occurred around 11:15 p.m. on 16th Street at Albion Street. Yeates had just stepped off the curb when a vehicle traveling in the bus lane struck her at speed.
Her partner, Andrew Touma, said he watched in horror as Yeates was thrown into the air and landed face-first on the pavement, immediately losing consciousness.
“This car just came rushing at her like a maniac,” Touma said. “It was the most terrifying thing I’ve ever seen.”
The driver of a gray Mercedes fled the scene, leaving behind only a broken side mirror. First responders arrived within minutes, but the suspect was gone.
Serious Injuries and Ongoing Recovery
Yeates was rushed to Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, where she spent two days in the ICU being treated for a traumatic brain injury. She has since been transferred to a hospital in Redwood City.
In addition to her head injury, Yeates suffered:
- A fractured knee
- A broken ankle requiring surgery
Doctors say she is expected to recover, but her progress remains day-to-day, and a long rehabilitation process is likely — a common reality for survivors of traumatic brain injuries.
Community Rallies Around Brain Injury Survivor
Yeates serves as an administrator at Lydian Academy in Palo Alto, where colleagues describe her as an educator who brings joy and stability to students’ lives.
The school has organized:
- A GoFundMe campaign
- Meal deliveries
- Ongoing family support
“There is no excuse for a driver to hit another human being and flee the scene,” said head of school Jonathan Frecceri. “This is where basic humanity needs to kick in.”
Friends and family have traveled from Texas to support Yeates as she recovers.
Legal Context: Traumatic Brain Injury & Hit-and-Run Accountability
Under California law, hit-and-run crashes involving injury carry serious consequences:
- Vehicle Code §20001 makes leaving the scene of an injury crash a felony, punishable by prison time.
- Victims of hit-and-run crashes may pursue civil claims under Civil Code §1714 for negligence.
- Families may seek compensation for medical care, rehabilitation, lost income, and pain and suffering.
- When a driver is not immediately identified, victims may still recover compensation through uninsured motorist coverage or other legal avenues.
Traumatic brain injuries often require months or years of treatment, including cognitive therapy, physical rehabilitation, and neurological monitoring — costs that can quickly become overwhelming.
Learn More About Protecting Yourself After a Head Injury
If you or a loved one is facing recovery from a traumatic brain injury like Erika Yeates, you do not have to navigate this journey alone. At the Brain Injury Help Center, we provide compassionate guidance and strong legal advocacy.
We offer:
- Free Consultations to explain your rights and options
- No-Win, No-Fee Guarantee — you pay nothing unless we win
- Comprehensive Support, from investigating hit-and-run cases to helping families access top neurological care
Medical Treatment You Need, Money You Deserve
Take the First Step Toward Justice
If you or someone you love has suffered a brain injury due to a hit-and-run or pedestrian crash, contact the Brain Injury Help Center today for a free, confidential consultation. We’re here to help you pursue recovery, accountability, and peace of mind.
