Pedestrian Hit, Killed By SUV
Pedestrians are common sights on Houston roadways. Drivers need to be aware of them, but sometimes it’s hard on busy roadways, especially in the early morning and late night hours, when visibility is reduced.
Sadly, a man was killed while walking on Highway 249. He was hit by a driver who could not swerve in time to avoid him. The fatal accident occurred on the morning of April 6 along Highway 249 in Houston.
A man, who appeared to be homeless, was pushing a cart and pulling a luggage tote in the 2600 block of West Mount Houston Road and Highway 249. He was near the right westbound lane and did not yield to traffic when he was hit by a Ford Escape heading west. The man died at the accident scene.
The driver of the Ford remained at the accident scene. He told police he was unable to see the pedestrian due to limited visibility. The driver did not appear to be intoxicated.
How Pedestrians Can Stay Safe
Walking on the same roadways as motor vehicles can be dangerous for pedestrians. Drivers are not always alert and aware of their surroundings. Here are some things pedestrians can do to stay safe:
- Follow the rules of the road. Pedestrians do not always have the right of way. They need to be predictable and obey traffic signs and signals.
- Be alert. Avoid using your phone or headphones while walking. Be alert and look and listen for traffic and other hazards.
- Use sidewalks. Walk on sidewalks if they are available. They will keep you out of traffic.
- If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and keep as far off the road as possible.
- Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections. Drivers are more likely to see you. Look for cars coming in all directions. If no crosswalk or intersection is available, find an area with a good view of traffic.
- Watch for cars in driveways and parking lots. Motorists who are backing up or looking for a parking spot may not be focused on pedestrians. Be careful when walking in parking lots or near driveways.
- Never assume. Drivers could be distracted or impaired, so never assume that they can see you. Make eye contact with drivers and take steps to make yourself more visible by wearing brightly colored clothing and using a flashlight at night.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs. Even as a pedestrian, intoxication can affect your judgment, reaction time, and ability to walk and look for cars. Stay sober when walking.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Pedestrians need to be careful when crossing streets or walking along roadways. At the same time, motorists also need to be alert and look for hazards in the road while driving.
Injured in a crash? See how a Houston auto accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC can assist you with paying for damages. To schedule a free consultation, fill out the online form or call 281-347-3247.
Source:
abc13.com/pedestrian-killed-houston-traffic-accidents-crash-suv/13094114/
