5-Year-Old Boy Hurt in Phoenix Pedestrian Accident
As Phoenix pedestrian accident attorneys, we are sorry to report a pedestrian accident with a little boy and a vehicle. On September 28, 2011, a boy was hit by a car south of Broadway Road as reported by AZ family. The car was traveling eastbound when the incident happened while the 5-year-old boy was walking with his mother along 24th Street and Chipman Road. The driver pulled over after incident and cooperated with Phoenix Police by answering their questions. The 5-year-old boy had a broken bone, a bump and cut on his head. He was transported to a hospital in stable condition. Phoenix fire officials' initial investigation revealed that impairment and speeding on the part of the driver did not appear to be the cause of the accident.
What Caused This Pedestrian Accident?
Based on information reported by AZ Family, the boy was hit by the car when he ran into the street. We do not know for sure if this is what happened but it is a reminder to all to make sure children understand that they cannot run into the street and that those actions can be very dangerous. At the same time, many drivers are speeding through the streets and even if a child runs into the street, the driver still should not be speeding.
Arizona Pedestrian Accident Statistics
As of 2010, The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) reported a total of 31 fatalities and 3,881 children age 14 and younger who were injured as a result of a pedestrian accident. Luckily, pedestrian accidents for children in Arizona has declined from 1,236 pedestrian accidents in 2010 from 1,309 in 2009. Unfortunately, although the number of accidents has decreased from 2009 to 2010, the number of pedestrian fatalities for children in these age ranges has increased. In 2009 there were 122 fatal pedestrian accidents for children and 155 fatal pedestrian accidents in 2010.
Arizona Pedestrian Accident Laws
Pedestrians are subject to traffic-control signals (28-791) just like any other road use. Thus, pedestrians are always expected to follow traffic lights except when there are instances that traffic lights are not functioning or not in place. Pedestrian control signals (ARS 28-646) including “walk,” “don't walk” and “right-of-way” are signals pedestrians and drivers should be paying attention to at all times.
Contact a Phoenix Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Being a victim of an Arizona pedestrian accident, especially when it is a child, can be a frightening experience. Many times the accident happens so fast when a child is involved that the adult does not know who is at fault or if the driver could have contributed to the accident. Other times, liability is clear cut on the part of the driver or the pedestrian. When you have incurred medical expenses as a result of a pedestrian accident, it is important to consult with a Phoenix pedestrian accident attorney to make sure you know all of your legal rights. Attorneys Alexis and Mark Breyer of Breyer Law Offices, P.C. are experienced pedestrian accident lawyers who can help you by answering all of your questions. Call for a free consultation at (602) 457-6222.
