Walking down city streets should not be dangerous, but the number of accidents involving pedestrians is on the rise across the country. While the rate of fatal pedestrian accidents had been declining, in recent years, it has begun rising once again. According to a recent article in the San Diego Union Tribune, the city has not provided updates and features for Vision Zero, a nationwide campaign to end traffic-related deaths by the year 2025. Certainly it seems that at least every week there is a report of a pedestrian or bicyclist who was hit by a vehicle in the San Diego area.
Hit and Run Pedestrian Fatalities
The most recent case involves a hit and run accident in El Cajon in which the pedestrian was left lying in the side of the road. She was found by another motorist and died while being transported to the hospital. Police are looking for the driver of the vehicle who hit the woman, most likely as she attempted to cross the street. Unfortunately, the number of pedestrians who are injured or killed on our streets is not decreasing.
In this case, there were no witnesses to the accident and little is known about what happened. As with many accidents involving pedestrians, the injuries incurred can be quite severe and even life-threatening. A pedestrian is likely to die if hit at a speed of 40 MPH or more. In this case, the police are investigating the accident and will try to locate any witnesses or surveillance video if possible. They will also ask the community to help by stepping forward with any information that may assist with the case.
Prevention of Pedestrian Accidents
There are some things that can be done to prevent pedestrian accidents. Drivers and pedestrians both need to become more aware of their surroundings. Driving while impaired or while distracted can be deadly. Taking your eyes off the road for just a few seconds can make it impossible to stop in time if a pedestrian crosses your path. Texting while driving and driving while under the influence are both activities that can impair your ability to drive. Speeding and other things may also be factors in many pedestrian accidents.
Pedestrians need to be more careful while walking and especially when crossing the street. Always cross at a crosswalk and pay attention to the traffic signals. The city and others can make the streets safer for pedestrians by increasing the number of crosswalks and signals and by installing better street lighting. The speed limits need to be reviewed and lowered in areas where there are a large number of people walking or bicycling. These precautions could help drivers slow down and pay better attention to the road and to pedestrians.
If you or a loved one were hurt in a pedestrian accident, you might be entitled to compensation. You are owed money for your injuries as well as other damages such as money for lost wages and pain and suffering. Contact the experienced legal team at the Law Office of Patrick G. Shea to discuss your case today.
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