Maryland Pedestrian Killed Trying to Cross Busy Highway

By Peter DePaolis
Attorney

Unprotected by seat belts or airbags, pedestrians whom cars hit often suffer severe injuries, ranging from broken bones and bruises to spinal cord or brain injuries, or even death. In addition, unfortunately, children and elderly persons are the ones frequently hit. Children run into roads without looking for oncoming traffic, and the elderly are slower to cross roads and react.

A 50-year-old Maryland man was recently trying to cross a busy U.S. highway when a pickup truck hit and killed him. As anyone involved in a pedestrian accident should do, the driver of the truck stayed on the scene and helped authorities. Investigators determined that pedestrian error was the main cause of the accident.

It takes efforts from both pedestrians and drivers to avoid pedestrian accidents. Drivers, particularly in urban areas, must stay vigilant for people darting into the street, whether they are walking, biking, or jogging. Drivers should avoid driving while distracted, because accidents occur in the split seconds people take their eyes or attention off the road. Pedestrians should wear bright clothing so that drivers can easily spot them. They should always look both ways before crossing streets, even if it is not a busy intersection. Parents should make extra efforts to ensure that their children know and understand these rules.

A Maryland personal injury lawyer understands the difficulties that pedestrian accidents can cause. If you or a loved one has suffered any injuries from a pedestrian accident, please contact a Maryland personal injury attorney at Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis L.L.P.

About the Author
Peter DePaolis joined the firm in 1980 and has since represented a large number of individuals involved in automobile collisions, truck accidents, bus crashes, defective products, and medical malpractice cases. A significant portion of Mr. DePaolis’ practice is devoted to working on behalf of people suffering from asbestosis, mesothelioma, and other asbestos-related cancers. He has led his firm’s fight against the asbestos industry and has recovered over $30 million in damages for asbestos victims and their families.