Watch For Pedestrians

Bakersfield Pedestrian Struck by Two Vehicles, Hospitalized

A Bakersfield man landed in the hospital after being struck by two vehicles on October 17, 2014. According to police, the 31-year-old man was crossing Gosford Road when he was struck by a Dodge pickup and thrown into the path of a Ford pickup that also struck him. He was immediately transported to the hospital with major injuries. Police are still investigating the accident, but claim that drugs or alcohol do not appear to have played a role and noted that the man was not in a crosswalk at the time he was hit.

It is sadly not uncommon for pedestrian to be injured or killed by cars. Every year, approximately 4,400 pedestrians are killed by vehicles. Though alcohol plays a part in almost half of these collisions (48 percent), there are other factors that play a role in pedestrian-car accidents.

It is not always easy to spot a pedestrian, especially at night, and this can cause motorists to drive through intersections or other roadways when pedestrians are crossing. While drivers are accustomed to watching out for other vehicles, they need to take the same vigilant approach to keeping an eye out for pedestrians. This is especially true because collisions can be deadly to pedestrians due to the size and weight difference between pedestrians and vehicles.

Additionally, it is just as important for pedestrian to observe the rules of the road, which includes using crosswalks. Often pedestrians will misjudge the distance or speed of a vehicle and believe they have enough time to cross a street ahead of it. By utilizing crosswalks, a pedestrian eliminates the risk of a miscalculation and increases his or her own safety.

Both motorists and pedestrians need to respect one another’s presence on the road. If you have been injured in a pedestrian-car accident, you may have legal rights. Schedule a free initial consultation with the knowledgeable Bakersfield personal injury attorneys at The Law Offices of Young Wooldridge, LLP to learn more.

Call today for a confidential consultation! 661.327.9661

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