Drivers need to be extra vigilant in neighborhoods to watch out for pedestrians.
16-Year-Old Boy Struck by Vehicle After Running Into the Street
A teenage boy from the South Side is in critical condition after being struck by a Ford Focus on Friday, June 23, 2023, according to a San Antonio Express-News report.
The incident occurred at around 10 p.m. on the 6300 block of South Flores Street, according to the report. The boy ran into the street in front of his home after apparently arguing with his mother. The driver who struck the boy stopped to help him, and he was transported to the hospital in critical condition. No charges are currently being pressed, and police mentioned in their report that boy was crossing the street 204 feet from the nearest crosswalk.
Did You Know?
A study by MoneyGeek found that for every 10 mph increase in speed, pedestrian mortality rates double.
Driving in Neighborhoods
Did you know that more than half of auto accidents that result in a fatality or serious injury occur within five miles of the driver’s home? A contributing reason for this is that drivers tend to relax and pay less attention when driving on roads or routes that they are very familiar with. If you’ve ever spaced out and driven like you’re on autopilot to or from work, then you’re like most people. However, it’s incredibly important to stay vigilant when driving, especially in neighborhoods.
Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents at 25 to 30 mph are far less likely to result in death, which is why it is vital to obey posted speed limits in school zones, neighborhoods, and parking lots. However, accidents that don’t result in death almost always result in catastrophic injury, including:
- Second- or third-degree burns that cover 10% or more of the body
- Paralysis
- Broken or distorted arms or legs
- Severe laceration with exposure of underlying tissue, muscle, or organs, or causing significant blood loss
- Compression of body parts
- Possible skull, chest, or abdominal injury
When driving through a neighborhood, school zone, or parking lot, be vigilant to follow the posted speed limit and keep an eye out for pedestrians.
Safe Driving Tips for Neighborhood Driving
It’s important always to follow the rules of the road and be vigilant when driving. Here are a few tips for safe driving in neighborhoods, parking lots, and school zones in Texas.
- Stay off of your phone – Distracted driving is never safe, even when you’re close to home. Put the phone away and wait until you’re home to answer that text.
- Avoid other distractions – Eating, fiddling with the radio, and drinking are all simple actions that can cause big distractions when driving. Keep your eyes on the road at all times when driving.
- Ensure proper visibility, especially at night – Make sure your lights are working properly and that you avoid looking into oncoming traffic lights, as this can temporarily reduce your vision and make driving dangerous.
Remember, if you accidentally strike a pedestrian, you must stop and render aid. Leaving the scene will result in criminal charges and is irresponsible.
Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Serving San Antonio
If you have been in a pedestrian accident in San Antonio or the surrounding area, contact the pedestrian accident attorneys at Carabin Shaw. We have 30 years of experience helping the injured across Texas file their personal injury and wrongful death claims. Contact us today at 800-862-1260, or fill out this form to get started. We look forward to serving you.