Boston Car Accident Lawyer Blog
State and local police are investigating a deadly hit and run that occurred in Uxbridge last weekend.
According to officials, an Uxbridge man, 53, was struck while he was walking on the side of the road on Sunday evening. Police suspect he was struck by a tractor trailer. The driver of a tractor trailer who had driven through the town had heard reports of the accident, and came forward to say he may have struck the man. The driver reported he thought he had struck something, however when he went to check, he did not see anything. Police are still questioning whether the driver was involved and investigating the incident.
Pedestrian traffic accidents account for more than 13% of all traffic-related fatalities and 3% of all personal injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) a pedestrian is injured every eight minutes and one pedestrian dies every two hours as the result of a traffic accident in the United States. Approximately 20% of all pedestrian car accidents according to the NHTSA, are also hit-and-run accidents. While we do not have much information about this particular incident, what can be assumed is that this young lady was walking during the early morning hours; at a time where there was minimal daylight.
In order to prevent an accident and keep themselves visible to motorists, pedestrians should always:
-Wear bright or reflective clothing and carry a flashlight when walking during the early hours of the morning, at dusk, or at night.
-Walk on sidewalks (whenever possible) and walk against the traffic when there are no sidewalks.
-Cross at designated crosswalks whenever possible.
Drivers can prevent pedestrian accidents by:
-Yielding to the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing streets in marked or unmarked crosswalks.
-Yielding to pedestrians while turning at intersections or onto another street.
-Being vigilant and aware of pedestrians walking at night, when it is dark out.
-Slowing near major crosswalks.
Pedestrians are incredibly vulnerable during accidents, because unlike motorists, they have no physical barriers to protect themselves. Boston and the surrounding Massachusetts communities are filled with activity and traffic that pose serious threats to pedestrians’ safety. Broken bones, severe cuts and bruises, skin burns, spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, and even death are common injuries of pedestrian accidents.
If you or a loved one was involved in a pedestrian accident call the attorneys at Altman & Altman, LLP to discuss whether you qualify for a personal injury claim. Upon evaluation of your case we will determine whether you are eligible for compensation for your injuries-medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering. Do not hesitate to contact one of our attorneys today. All initial consultations are completely free of charge and entirely confidential.
