The grant could help reduce accidents involving pedestrians.
Crossing a street in Springfield, MA, should not be an action that puts your life at risk. But tragically, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vulnerable road users have died on roads in this Western Massachusetts city through no fault of their own.
Recognizing that the city has an "over-the-top crash rate," administrators of a federal grant program will award Springfield with $15 million to improve safety, according to Streetsblog Mass. The money will be used to make 10 high-traffic streets and 15 intersections safer for pedestrians. Streetsblog reports that Springfield is recognized as one of the most dangerous cities for traffic violence in Massachusetts.
How to keep vulnerable road users safe
The City of Springfield will hire a consultant to draft a safety plan. According to Streetsblog, a safety advocate says the federal support will fast-track projects the city has identified as priorities in a safe streets plan.
An experienced car accident lawyer in Springfield knows that pedestrian accidents are preventable. Unfortunately, they often happen because of driver negligence. Some of the top causes of accidents involving pedestrians and bicyclists include but are not limited to:
- Distractions: Some people make the reckless choice to look at cellphones or text and drive, but there are many forms of distractions, including eating or drinking, talking with other passengers, using an entertainment or navigation system in the vehicle, and more.
- Speeding: Driving too fast on a city street leads to a reduction in reaction time. For example, a pedestrian might get hit by a car while in a crosswalk because the driver failed to slow down in time to avoid a collision.
- Drunk driving: Consuming alcohol or drugs and getting behind the wheel is reckless and dangerous. Intoxicated drivers suffer a lack of judgment and may veer off the road and strike a pedestrian. They also might speed or drive aggressively, putting others at risk.
What to do if you're hit by a car
Car accidents involving pedestrians often result in serious injuries or even death for the person on foot. If you are injured as a pedestrian, you should call for emergency help as soon as possible (if you are able to do so). Seek medical attention. Let an EMT or another medical professional examine you, even if you don't think your injuries are serious. Internal injuries or head injuries might not be immediately apparent in the moments after the accident but could become life-threatening if left untreated.
If possible, get the driver's information before they leave the scene. Sometimes, drivers will "hit and run." Try to remember details about the car (make and model, the color of the vehicle, license plate number) and get a description of the driver.
How a pedestrian accident lawyer in Springfield, MA, can help
Insurance companies can be difficult to deal with on your own after an accident. They may offer a lowball settlement. They may try to say you were at fault and shift the blame from the driver to avoid liability. A lawyer can help you navigate through these complex legal matters and protect your rights throughout the entire process. An attorney can gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and build a strong case on your behalf for the financial compensation you deserve.
Don't delay, contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone to schedule a free consultation. Our law firm works on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. Tell them you mean business!