Three individuals were struck by a car and injured in Logan Airport’s Terminal C drop-off and pick-up area last week.
According to Massachusetts State Police, the incident occurred around 4:30 p.m. Wednesday afternoon when a 1995 Lexus being driven by Erin Bringham, 53, jumped the curb. One of the victims suffered life-threatening injuries. No updates on the other victims have been provided, and the cause of the accident remains under investigation.
PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that more than 4,000 pedestrians are killed each year in the United States; representing about 3% of all fatal auto-related incidents. A majority of these pedestrian accidents occur in urban areas where high volume automobile and pedestrian traffic is inevitable. In fact, nearly three-quarters of all pedestrian accidents occur in city settings; typically during nighttime hours.
Often these types of accidents are caused when pedestrians and drivers do not obey laws and signals. In fact, only 60% of pedestrians said they expected drivers to stop when they were in crosswalks, even though they have the right-of-way. Additionally, both pedestrians and drivers frequently use cell phones and music players; a major distraction while walking or driving.
Pedestrian car accidents are entirely preventable, if both pedestrians and drivers obey the laws of the road. Here are a few safety tips for both drivers and pedestrians to stay safe:
Pedestrians:
– Wear lightly colored or reflective clothing and carry a flashlight while walking at night.
– Use crosswalks when crossing the street. If a crosswalk is unavailable, be sure to find a well-lit spot on the road to cross and wait for a long enough gap in traffic to make it safely across the street.
– If possible, make eye contact with the driver in a stopped vehicle to ensure that they have seen you before you cross in front of them.
– Stay on sidewalks whenever possible. If a sidewalk is not available, but sure to walk on the far side of the road that is facing traffic. This will help increase your visibility to the drivers on the road.
– Avoid distractions such as looking down at your cell phone or playing music too loud while wearing headphones. Remember that your eyes and ears are the best tools you have to keep yourself safe.
– Know and follow all traffic rules, signs and signals, and anticipate what drivers may do.
– NEVER assume a driver will give you the right of way.
– Avoid walking along highways or other roadway where pedestrians are prohibited.
– Avoid alcohol consumption
Drivers:
– Be alert while operating your vehicle and avoid distractions such as electronic devices.
– Be constantly vigilant of pedestrians – Follow posted speed limits at all times, especially in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.
– Be extra cautions while driving in poor visibility, such as a night, during heavy rainfall, fog, and snow. Remember, that it will be equally as difficult for pedestrians to see drivers, too.
– Be mindful of pedestrians when pulling out of, into, and backing out of driveways. Pedestrians can easily enter your path without your knowledge while you are backing up.
– Be vigilant near crosswalks, and always yield to pedestrians standing in a crosswalk-It’s the law.
– If you approach a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk, do not try to pass them.
– DO NOT drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
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