Sometimes, the worst kind of car accident can happen with only one car. Recently, not far from Miami, an eight year old boy was struck and killed after he left his home while under the supervision on his teen babysitter. Investigators are still unsure of what happened and why the boy was in the street, but pedestrian related car accidents don’t just involve children; they can happen to anyone.
Like with any car accident investigation that involves someone who has died or suffered an injury, police with ask questions regarding whether the driver of the vehicle was speeding, or was distracted somehow, or even if they had been drinking. They’ll also look at whether the boy was already in the street, or if he ran out in front of the car.
No matter how old they are, pedestrians need to be careful. Even when they are supposed to have the right of way motorists often don’t pay close enough attention to notice that they are there. For the most part pedestrians will simply surrender their right to the road to the motorists in order to avoid a personal injury, or worse. But there are times when even a slower pedestrian cannot get out of the way.
But even when it is motorists turn, they need to keep an eye out for pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles or anything that may come into their pathway while they are driving. If you’ve been hit by a car, there’s a good chance you have a personal injury case. A lawyer can help you decide what to do next.
Source: CBS4, “Lauderhill Boy Struck, Killed By Car,” Dec. 16, 2012