A 24 year-old man was recently charged with involuntary manslaughter as a result of a Missouri crash that killed his pedestrian classmate. A man standing at a nearby bus stop observed a “muscle car” drive through a red light, narrowly miss another car, hit a section of train tracks and go airborne. His car then landed, slid into two poles, and then struck the young man walking on the sidewalk. The Springfield News-Leader reported that skid marks on the roadway told the story.
When drivers take their eyes off the road, even for a split second, the consequences can be deadly. It is not yet clear what this young Missouri driver to run the red traffic signal. It is so unfortunate that this auto accident resulted in a pedestrian being struck. In a former blog article, I discussed how vulnerable motorcycle riders are when it comes to traffic crashes. Pedestrians are at even a greater risk. The problem arises because there is absolutely no protection for a pedestrian. Motorcycle riders, while exposed to extreme dangers as well, at least have the bike and helmet to protect some body parts. Pedestrians are left to absorb the force of the car themselves.
This tragic car accident is yet another reminder of how quickly life can change. During the holiday season especially, please be aware of your surroundings while both walking and driving.
Car reportedly ran light before deadly Mo. crash, kspr.com, December 20, 2010.