Woman Killed Crossing Street: The Importance of Pedestrian Safety
Walking is a healthy, economical, eco-friendly form of transportation, but not always safe for the walkers. On October 10, 2019, a 22-year-old woman was fatally injured while crossing the street at the intersection of 36th Street and Burlingame Avenue in Wyoming, Michigan.
Two cars collided in the intersection and one of them spun out of control, hitting Catherine Fenner at approximately 6:34 p.m. Ms. Fenner was taken to the hospital in critical condition and later died from her injuries. The cause of the crash was still under investigation at the time of the report.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics
This young woman’s needless death reminds us of the importance of pedestrian safety. Nationwide, pedestrian fatalities decreased by 1.7% in 2017, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Still, nearly 6,000 pedestrians died in traffic crashes in a single recent year. On average, a pedestrian was killed every 88 minutes in the United States. Per 100,000 population, the pedestrian fatality rate in Wyoming was 1.04 for 2017, which was better than the national average of 1.91.
Walking Tips for Pedestrian Safety
We are all pedestrians at some point, whether we are walking to work, walking around the block, or walking from the car in a parking lot to the entrance of a store. NHTSA offers pedestrians the following tips for safer walking:
- Walk on sidewalks when they are available.
- When there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic, as far away from traffic as possible.
- Follow the rules of the road and obey traffic signs and signals.
- Stay alert at all times. Do not allow yourself to be distracted by your cell phone or any electronic device that takes your eyes — or your ears — off the road.
- Cross at crosswalks and intersections, where drivers are expecting pedestrians whenever possible. Look for cars in all directions, including vehicles turning right or turning left.
- If there is no crosswalk or intersection available, find a well-lit area to cross, where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows you time to safely cross, and continue to watch for traffic as you do so.
- Remain as visible as possible at all times. Wear bright clothing during the day. At night, wear reflective materials or use a flashlight.
- Watch for cars backing up in parking lots or entering or exiting driveways.
- Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with approaching drivers to ensure you have been seen.
- Avoid alcohol or drugs when walking, as they can impair your judgement and abilities.
Get Legal Help After a Pedestrian Accident
Pedestrians are completely unprotected and vulnerable to serious injuries in a collision with a motor vehicle. Common pedestrian accident injuries include:
- Head trauma
- Internal injuries
- Pelvic injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Bone fractures
- Deep lacerations
- Death
If you have been hurt by a negligent driver in a pedestrian accident, you are entitled to pursue compensation for your injuries. Call (307) 257-7800 to speak with the trial attorneys at Steven Titus & Associates, P.C. Our Campbell County personal injury lawyers have the knowledge, skills, and resources to fight for the compensation you deserve.
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