Man Fatally Injured in Pedestrian Accident Near Modesto
I’m Ed Smith, a Modesto car accident lawyer. A pedestrian walking in northwest Modesto on the morning of Sunday, October 22, 2017 was hit by an oncoming vehicle. Tragically, the pedestrian succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
What Happened?
A male pedestrian was walking westbound along Shoemake Avenue in the vicinity of Finney Road at approximately 1:19 am. At the same time, a 23-year-old man was driving his Saturn westbound along Shoemake Avenue. The pedestrian was allegedly in the traffic lane and in the direct path of the Saturn. The driver was unable to avoid the pedestrian, resulting in a serious collision.
Was the Pedestrian Injured?
Medical personnel responded to the area of the pedestrian accident. They located the injured man upon arrival and initiated a medical evaluation. Sadly, the man was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Stanislaus County Coroner’s Office identified the man as 28-year-old Ronald Patterson.
Our deepest thoughts and condolences are with the loved ones of Mr. Patterson afer this heart-wrenching accident.
What Caused the Pedestrian Accident?
A cause of the pedestrian accident has not yet been disclosed by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Investigators from CHP usually take one to two weeks to process a Traffic Collision Report. Officials do not suspect that drugs or alcohol contributed to the collision.
Pedestrian’s Duty of Care
Pedestrians should remember that they are susceptible to serious injury in accidents involving motor vehicles due to their lack of protection. Even if a pedestrian has the legal right-of-way, they should always be prepared to yield to oncoming vehicles as some motorists may be alcohol-impaired or texting and driving.
Tips for Avoiding Pedestrian Accidents
The first suggestion to avoid being hit in a pedestrian accident would be to wear visible clothing while walking along a busy or rural roadway. The combination of visible clothing and a light source, such as a blinking red light or flashlight, is best for pedestrian visibility. The second recommendation would be walking on the left side of the road, facing traffic, to move out of the way if necessary. When a pedestrian walks on the right side, their back is turned to oncoming traffic. This, in turn, makes them more susceptible to such accidents. Motorists also are obligated to share the road with pedestrians and bicyclists. Drivers should allow as much space as possible when traveling alongside bicyclists and pedestrians.
Related Content by Edward A Smith:
- Modesto Pedestrian Accident Statistics 2016
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Pedestrian Injured in Hit-and-Run Accident Near Downtown Modesto
Modesto Car Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Modesto car accident lawyer. Accidents involving pedestrians oftentimes result in catastrophic injuries or even death. If you or a member of your family has suffered injuries resulting from a car, pedestrian or bicycle accident, please call me at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice. You can also reach me free online at AutoAccident.com.
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