Texas Accident & Injury News
Senior pedestrians are at risk for serious accidents in San Antonio.
Senior Pedestrian Hit and Killed While Crossing at South-Side Intersection
According to a KSAT News report, a senior man was killed in a pedestrian accident Monday morning.
Police reported the accident happened at around 9 a.m. on November 25th at the intersection of Southwest Military and Pleasanton. Esteban Antonio Ybarra, 72, was crossing a designated crosswalk at the intersection when he was struck by a passing vehicle. A witness reported that the person who struck the man stopped to render aid, and police do not expect charges to be filed against the driver. Ybarra was pronounced dead at the scene. The investigation is ongoing.
Did You Know?
The population of 65 and older rose 11.7% in San Antonio between 2020 and 2023.
Tips for Senior Pedestrians in San Antonio
San Antonio is a popular retirement destination, and it’s no surprise: It’s a fantastic city to settle down in with family, and our rapidly growing 65+ demographic is a testament to that.
However, San Antonio is not a walking-friendly city, though improvements are being made, and senior pedestrians are among the most at risk for a catastrophic pedestrian accident.
As a senior pedestrian, there are things you can do to minimize your risk wherever your destination might be.
#1 — Stay Visible
The most common reason for pedestrian accidents is the driver’s inability to see you.
Choose bright-colored jackets during the day, and consider walking with a partner to increase your visibility. It’s better not to walk at night or in the evening, but if you have to, wear reflective clothing/accessories and use a flashlight.
#2 — Walk on a Sidewalk, Cross at Intersections
San Antonio has fast-moving traffic, and the upcoming holidays often see a rise in speeding and distracted driving.
Choose routes that include sidewalks, and walk as far from the street as possible. When crossing, only do so at intersections with designated sidewalks. Never cross between vehicles or in between intersections outside of a crosswalk.
#3 — Practice Good Crossing Behavior
Don’t ever assume a driver can see you or will give you the right of way just because you have it.
Try to make eye contact with a driver before crossing. Look left, right, and left again, turning your whole body instead of glancing over your shoulder when scanning for traffic. Finally, remember that you may need more time to cross, so wait for the next signal if there are only a few seconds left.
#4 –Wear Sturdy Shoes
Slipping can cause you to suddenly fall into the street, putting you in extreme danger.
Make sure to choose shoes that are appropriate for walking. Consider shoes that have non-slip features and don’t walk when it’s rainy to reduce your risk of falling.
#5 — Consider Hiking Trails
Walking near the street should be avoided if you have the choice.
San Antonio has many easy, paved hiking trails away from traffic that allow you to maintain healthy walking habits without risking a pedestrian accident. You can’t control what drivers will do, so it’s best to remove them from the equation altogether.
Of course, you can do everything right and still be injured by a reckless driver. When the worst happens, call Shaw.
Hit by a Reckless Driver as a Senior Pedestrian? Call Shaw!
If you were hurt in a pedestrian accident that wasn’t your fault, you could be entitled to compensation for things like:
- Ambulance Costs
- ER Treatment
- Surgeries,
- Ongoing Medical Care,
- Medical Bills,
- Pain and Suffering,
- Trauma/PTSD,
- Wrongful Death,
- And More.
We’ll help you find out if you have a case for free.
Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 to schedule a free case evaluation with a Carabin Shaw attorney. No fees, no obligations, just the expert legal advice you need. We’ve been a trusted name in San Antonio for over 31 years because we put our clients first. We look forward to serving you.