Man Killed After Being Struck on Southwest Freeway
On the morning of Tuesday, July 22nd, a 27-year-old man passed away after being struck by a vehicle as he was walking through incoming traffic.
Details on the Incident
According to local authorities, the accident occurred around 3:20 a.m. within the 4600 block of Southwest Freeway near Newcastle Drive. The victim was attempting to cross over to the other side of the freeway and proceeded to do so while there was incoming traffic.
An incoming vehicle swerved out of the way to avoid striking the man, but a second vehicle ultimately took his life. Both drivers did not suffer any injuries and no criminal charges have been filed at this time.
Houston PD will continue their investigation regarding the accident.
The Catastrophic End Results of an Auto-Pedestrian Accident
When a vehicle directly strikes a human being, it can cause life-changing injuries and potentially death. To put this event into perspective, auto-pedestrian accidents accounted for a total of 17% of all traffic-related deaths on U.S. roadways in 2018. Texas alone accounted for 621 total pedestrian fatalities that same year.
More recently, early projections indicate that 2019 was the deadliest year for pedestrian fatalities since 1988, with a recorded death toll of 6,590.
Awareness and Vigilance Can Save Lives
While these accidents may occur far too often, there are simple precautions we as drivers or pedestrians can do to help reduce these preventable tragedies.
Essential Safety Tips For Pedestrians
- Use Sidewalks and Crosswalks : Sidewalks and crosswalks were implemented for the specific reason of getting pedestrians across the road or to their destination as safely as possible.
- Be Vigilant to Your Surroundings: It is critical to look around your surroundings when traveling via foot, as a vehicle can jump the curb and strike you if you aren’t aware. Also, always look both ways before proceeding to cross over to the opposite side of the road.
- Make Yourself Visible: Make yourself as visible as possible so that others on the road can easily detect your presence. Wearing bright, reflective gear at night can also save your life.
- Avoid Distractions: Avoid using any electronic devices when attempting to cross the street to avoid putting yourself and drivers in a very dangerous position.
Lapeze & John Wants to Help Injured Pedestrians Get Their Life Back
When an unexpected auto-pedestrian accident occurs, it is crucial to seek legal action against the negligent person responsible for your injuries. The car accident lawyers of Lapeze & Johns serve victims in Houston and it’s surrounding areas, guiding them every step of the way to seek the appropriate financial compensation they deserve!
Contact Lapeze & Johns for a FREE, no-obligation case evaluation now.
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