As children, we are often taught to “look both ways” when crossing the street. But how many of us were taught to look both ways AND use a crosswalk before entering the street? Perhaps the old sayings our mothers taught us should be dusted off and reinvented for the new world we live in. The truth is that although we aim to be safe and cautious at all times, accidents can inevitably and tragically occur. In a recent case, a pedestrian in San Diego was tragically hit and killed by a motorcyclist crossing the street.

Police officials say the pedestrian had allegedly walked right into the path of the motorcyclist. Following the collision, the individual suffered a severed leg and several other serious injuries according to reports. Tragically, the pedestrian in question passed away as a result of the injuries.

Authorities according to NBC News San Diego noted that the motorcyclist was not cited for the accident.

San Diego officials are currently investigating the accident as details remain unclear.

PEDESTRIAN SAFETY: NAVIGATING SAN DIEGO STREETS

The city of San Diego is, generally, a safe place. Unlike other parts of the country where crimes are often rampant and urban life is undesirable, San Diego is more haven-like and serene. It’s no wonder we have earned the moniker as America’s Finest City. Nevertheless, accidents do occur even in our most idyllic town. When it comes to pedestrian safety, here’s what you can do to stay safe in San Diego.

Be cautious on residential streets

In many cases, individuals are often less cautious to cross streets within a residential area. Perhaps it is the reduced speed limit that provides a false veil of security. But the truth is that residential streets can be just as dangerous as the busy intersections of our community; although speed is, hopefully, reduced, the impact of a vehicle can cause catastrophic injury and even death when impact occurs within residential areas. Children are especially vulnerable.

  • When a crosswalk is unavailable, always look both ways and then AGAIN both ways, right and left, and then right again, to ensure there are no cars coming your way. Proceed into the street once you have clearly identified that it is safe to cross.
  • Children need to be monitored at all times. Unfortunately, we have blogged about recent news events in San Diego that involve children’s injuries due to car-related pedestrian accidents. Always supervise your children when they are playing in the front yard. If possible, encourage children to play in a secured backyard where traffic is a non-issue.

As a driver, look for and expect pedestrian traffic

Any time you get behind the wheel, you should always assume there will be pedestrian traffic. Whether you are on a residential street or a very busy, multiple-lane roadway, there will be people traveling by foot. In some cases, you may even see people on the freeway in cases of emergency.

  • Drive proactively. Don’t lose your focus on the road ahead. You never know when a bicyclist will “appear out of nowhere” and cause you to brake hard to otherwise swerve to avoid collision. In addition, kids tend to dart unexpectedly into the road. Expect that there will be children when you enter residential streets. And, in some cases, some parents have allowed older children to ride bikes on busy roadways. Always expect that there will be some type of pedestrian on the roadway.
  • Get rid of distractions immediately! If you haven’t made it a New Years’ resolution, we encourage you to do so. Simply let go of everything else when behind the wheel and simply DRIVE. Don’t use your cell phone, eat, apply makeup or otherwise be engaged in anything else but driving when you are behind the wheel. You just never know when an emergency will occur – be prepared to react!

When Pedestrian Accidents Occur

Unfortunately, San Diego pedestrian accidents occur and in many cases the results can be disastrous. If you or your child have been injured by a vehicle, it is important to speak to a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to ensure your legal rights are preserved. Please give us a call – 24/7 and FREE OF CHARGE – to discuss your case today. You may be entitled to financial compensation. 1-858-551-2090.