Recently Connecticut residents have been hearing tragic stories involving local pedestrians suffering serious injuries as a result of being struck by motor vehicles.
According to the Journal Inquierer, a local man was struck and killed by a motor vehicle as he was walking near the intersection of Main and Pearl streets Thursday January 5 2012.
WTNH reports on January 6, 2012, that a pedestrian was hit in Stamford and rushed to the emergency room. WFSB reports a similar story taking place in Manchester involving a young man and woman who were seriously injured when struck by a car while crossing Center Street. Our hearts and prayers go out to all of the people involved in these accidents.
Crossing the street seems like such a routine task. As pedestrians we assume that drivers can see us clearly and are looking out for us. As drivers, we assume that pedestrians will be overly cautious and remain still until we have passed. As this is not the case, it is important to review How to Avoid a Connecticut Pedestrian Accident.
For Drivers:
Avoid distractions. Looking down to dial a phone number, read a text or incoming email, or even glancing at the gps can mean the difference between life and death. It only takes a few seconds for a pedestrian to move from one side of the street to another.
Check your mirrors: Almost 10% of all serious pedestrian accidents nationwide occur while a driver is backing up, despite the slow rate of speed.
Use extra caution - when driving through busy intersections. Be aware of pedestrians on sidewalks and do not assume they see you if you are making a turn or proceeding through the intersection.
Know the weather. In Connecticut we have to be especially aware of freezing temperatures creating black ice resulting in the inability to stop for an oncoming pedestrian.
For Pedestrians:
A recent nation wide study revealed that 43% of all pedestrian vs. motor vehicle car crashes are actually the pedestrians fault!! If you are a walker keep the following guidelines in mind.
When crossing a street, use a crosswalk. If there is not a painted crosswalk, cross in the presence of visual cues such as stop lights or signs. Typically these areas will be better lit than other parts of the roadway.
Remain highly visible. Many Connecticut towns do not have sidewalks forcing pedestrians to walk on the road. Be sure to wear reflective clothing and "illuminate!" I found a great product at Fleet Feet in West Hartford mentioned
here called knuckle lights.
These are great for getting the attention of on coming vehicles.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, and you have questions about your legal rights, please call us toll-free at 1-800-4-INJURY for an immediate, no-obligation consultation. You will also receive an immediate response by emailing us at info@mccoymccoy.com. Our pedestrian accident lawyers look forward to speaking with you.