Pedestrian Killed in Accident in Erie County
An unidentified 79-year-old man was killed while crossing West Eighth Street in Erie County recently between Delaware and Ohio Street. Police are still investigating the incident.
A witness reported the accident to law enforcement around 7 pm. Emergency services transported the man to UPMC Hamot where medical professionals pronounced him dead upon arrival.
According to investigators, the man was crossing West Eighth Street south to north in the middle of the block. He was struck by a Honda Civic traveling east before being drug by a Chevrolet Aveo behind the Civic traveling east on the street.
The drivers of both vehicles stopped and cooperated with investigators.
Investigators are collecting data regarding the speed of the Honda Civic and intend to check local surveillance video. Witnesses are encouraged to contact law enforcement with any information at 814.870.1171.
Children and Senior Pedestrians Face Higher Risk
According to the CDC, Pedestrians aged 65 and older accounted for 1/5th of all pedestrian deaths in 2017. One out of every five children under the age of 15 killed in traffic crashes were pedestrians during the same year.
Even if you are not in either high-risk category, it’s important to protect yourself when walking in areas with traffic. This is especially true in high-traffic and busy areas. In 2017, nearly 6000 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the United States.
Pedestrians should:
- Increase their visibility at night by carrying a flashlight and wearing reflective clothing
- Cross streets at the designated crosswalk or intersection whenever possible
- Walk on a sidewalk or path instead of the road
- Walk on the shoulder and face oncoming traffic if a sidewalk or path is not available
- Avoid using electronic devices during walks
- Do not walk in traffic if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol
The majority of pedestrian accidents are avoidable. They are caused by negligent drivers or pedestrians and had everyone used more care, injuries can be avoided. There might also be road-related negligence, such as:
Road design and traffic features can be pivotal to keeping pedestrians safe on the streets. Issues like (but not limited to) the following can create unsafe road conditions and contribute to pedestrian accidents:
- No sidewalks or crosswalks
- Broken traffic signals
- Poorly situated signs
- Poorly organized highway work zones
- No or low lighting
- Blind or sharp turns
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you need an attorney to help you protect your rights and determine what compensation might be available to you. For more information or to discuss your situation, contact Heavens Law at 484-467-8254. All phone consultations are free and confidential, with no obligation beyond that.
