Unsafe road conditions combined with negligent driving have resulted in tragic pedestrian accidents on State Street in Springfield, Mass. In recent years, three people lost their lives trying to cross State Street near the city’s library.
City officials recently announced a safety upgrade to address the problem. By the end of December, the city will complete a much-anticipated safety improvement project near the Springfield Public Library, making State Street safer for pedestrians.
Unfortunately, too many people are injured or even killed while simply trying to cross the street or go about their daily routines. The upgrade is a step in the right direction for the community, one that could prevent more tragedy and save lives.
A long overdue solution to protect pedestrians
For years, the State Street crossing in front of the library has been a dangerous spot. According to an article in MassLive, in 2014, a tragic accident took the life of 7-year-old Destiny Gonzalez and injured her mother and cousin. Since then, residents and city officials have been searching for a way to make this crossing safer. Despite efforts to address the problem, the solution seemed elusive – until two more deaths in 2021 and 2023 brought renewed urgency to the issue. Two people were both struck and killed while crossing this busy street, MassLive reported.
One of the main problems with the crossing was the lack of a nearby crosswalk. The library and its parking lot are directly across from each other on State Street, but the nearest crosswalk was a daunting 200 feet away. Pedestrians often felt forced to dart across four lanes of traffic, with deadly results.
Springfield invests to upgrade safety
The new safety features installed on State Street promise to significantly reduce these risks. The project includes a state-of-the-art crossing system that narrows the road to one lane on either side in front of the library. It also adds a raised crosswalk with a pedestrian island in the middle, giving people a safer place to stop halfway across the street. Additionally, a red light will soon be installed that pedestrians can activate, forcing traffic to stop and allowing people to cross safely, according to MassLive.
How drivers can protect pedestrians
The installation of these safety features is a clear reminder that we can’t rely solely on technology. Drivers must remain vigilant when it comes to crossing the street.
Here are some tips for drivers to avoid accidents with people on foot:
- Yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections.
- Slow down in areas with high foot traffic (such as schools and parks).
- Avoid distractions such as texting or using your phone while driving.
- Look both ways before turning, especially in residential areas.
What should you do if you are injured in a pedestrian accident?
If you're injured in a pedestrian accident, your priority is to seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Call 911 to report the incident and ensure a police report is filed. Document the scene by taking photos and gathering contact information from witnesses and the driver. Avoid admitting fault or making statements to insurance companies without legal advice.
Contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone to protect your rights and guide you through the claims process. One of our experienced Springfield pedestrian accident lawyers can help ensure you receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering resulting from the accident. Tell Them You Mean Business!
"I can say the best lawyer in Springfield ... I am super pleased and highly recommended for best practices and professionalism that they display for clients. Thank you, Mark and staff." —Evangelista O., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐