According to WLOX, a tragic pedestrian accident that occurred in Hancock County earlier this month left one dead and two injured. Officials claim the incident happened on a Tuesday night in front of East Hancock Elementary School.
The school’s annual Christmas pageant was underway when just outside, a motor vehicle struck three pedestrians who were walking on Kiln-Delisle Road. The accident injured two children and fatally wounded a 47-year-old woman.
Authorities told the families who were attending the Christmas pageant to remain inside while they cleared the accident scene. The case remains under investigation.
Police noted that when there are events at the elementary school, it is not uncommon for the parking lot out front to fill up fairly quickly. As a result, many parents park across the street, in front of the Hancock County Horse Arena. Thus, although there is no designated crosswalk, passing motorists can expect to see pedestrians crossing the road in front of the school during programs.
If you or someone you love was hurt in a pedestrian accident, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. To discuss your case with a compassionate injury attorney in Madison and determine the best way to proceed, contact Ballard Law, PLLC.
William E. Ballard will help you avoid making mistakes during the claims process like overlooking certain damages, unknowingly admitting fault, or accepting an unfair settlement that is too low to cover the costs you have incurred. Call 769-572-5111 to schedule a free consultation.
How Can You Reduce the Risk of Getting into a Pedestrian Accident?
As a motorist, you have an obligation to use reasonable care when operating your motor vehicle, and to look out for pedestrians. Likewise, when you are a pedestrian, you must be wary of motorists who are not paying attention, and you must never just assume that a driver has seen you.
Pedestrian accidents can be traumatizing for motorists and catastrophic for those on foot. Fortunately, both parties can make an active effort to reduce the risk of causing these kinds of collisions. For example, as a motorist, you can:
- Always decelerate when approaching crosswalks so you can stop on time if necessary;
- Keep an eye out when driving by areas where there are likely to be pedestrians, like schools, playgrounds, dog parks, and suburban neighborhoods;
- Eliminate driving distractions;
- Maintain your vehicle and keep the windshield clear of dust, dirt, and debris; and
- Double-check your mirrors when pulling out of parking spaces where there are likely to be pedestrians walking past.
If you are the one on foot, on the other hand, you can reduce the risk of causing a collision by:
- Looking both ways before crossing;
- Using designated crosswalks;
- Eliminating distractions, like texting or listening to music; and
- Wearing bright or reflective clothing that is easy for passing motorists to see.
If you were hurt in a pedestrian accident despite following the above tips, contact Ballard Law, PLLC. Mr. Ballard will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and help you pursue the maximum compensation for medical bills, lost income, and non-economic damages.
Call 769-572-5111 to schedule a free case evaluation with an injury lawyer in Madison. If you want to learn more about car accident claims in Mississippi, visit usattorneys.com/car-accident/mississippi.
