Pedestrians in danger

In the past two years, the number of pedestrians who were injured by moving vehicles in Indiana has skyrocketed. Indiana residents may disregard accounts of pedestrians being struck by motor vehicles, or think that could never happen to them, but recent reports indicate that this type of accident is not uncommon. Vehicle-pedestrian accidents in Indiana occur frequently – and often result in fatalities.

In mid-November of 2017, 56-year-old Linda Meharg from New Palestine, IN was crossing the road  when she struck by a vehicle. She was transported to an Indianapolis hospital where she later died. The driver was a 19-year-old female, who walked away from the accident with no injuries and very little vehicular damage. 

Accidents on the rise

Walking across the street is more dangerous than it has been in more than a quarter-century, according to a new report by the Governors Highway Safety Association. The group recently released its yearly “Spotlight on Highway Safety” report based on preliminary state data.  The report estimated that nearly 6,000 pedestrians were killed by automobiles – for the second straight year.

In Indiana, there were an estimated 63 pedestrian deaths between January 2017 and June 2017. That statistic means that Indiana has the 12th highest rate in the nation for pedestrian deaths. 

Pedestrians now account for roughly 16 percent of all motor vehicle deaths, up from 11 percent a few years ago.

A growing number of motor vehicle smartphone users, coupled with the legalization of marijuana in several states, could be driving the spike in pedestrian accidents and deaths, the Governors Highway Safety Association said.

“While the report does not find or imply a definitive link between these factors and pedestrian deaths, it is widely accepted both smartphones and marijuana can impair the attention and judgment necessary to navigate roadways safely behind the wheel and on foot.”

Hit and run

Unfortunately, many serious and fatal pedestrian accidents are caused by hit-and-run drivers. A 45-year-old man in Indianapolis was attempting to cross the street at night when he was struck and killed by a pickup truck, according to authorities.

Another Indianapolis resident, Nabeela Virjee, was walking a short mile from her home to work when she was struck from behind.  Virjee suffered several broken bones as well as severe nerve damage.

Safety tips for pedestrians

Use extreme caution and be hyper-aware of your surrounding when you travel by foot or by bicycle.  Use these tips to stay safe:

• Always use the sidewalk
• Walk against traffic
• Cross at crosswalks and corners
• Do not pop-out from in-between cars
• Wear bright or white clothes when walking at night
• Do not use your mobile device, practice defensive walking techniques

Next Steps

If a vehicle strikes you or a loved one, pay close attention to how you feel, both at the scene of the accident and hours after. 

Keep a journal and detail your injuries and call Marshall P. Whalley & Associates immediately. Our team of trained professionals has the experience and skill to litigate the most complex personal injury cases – and get you the justice and compensation that you deserve.

Call 219-7769-2900 to schedule a free consultation.

After the accident

If you or someone you loved has been involved in an accident, if a car or truck has hit you or run over you or your property, call Whalley & Associates. We are dedicated to seeking justice for pedestrians who have been run over by motor vehicles.

Marshall P. Whalley will fight for the most positive results and compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage and emotional distress following crashes that involve pedestrians.  Please contact us online or call 219-769-2900 to schedule a free case evaluation.   

Marshall P. Whalley & Associates, PC

5 West 112th Avenue

Crown Point, IN 46307

219-769-2900