At around 1:30 p.m. on December 9th, police responded to the intersection of N. Lacrosse Street and E. North street for a report of aa car-vs-pedestrian crash. On arrival, police located the vehicle involved in the alleyway behind 530 E. North Street. The Honda Civic had major damage to its windshield. Police made contact with the pedestrian that was involved. His injuries were very minor, and police noted the smell of an alcoholic beverage coming from his person. After speaking with witnesses, police determined that the Civic was southbound on Lacrosse street slowing for a red light at the intersection. The pedestrian was seen entering the roadway in the middle of traffic and well outside of the crosswalk. The Civic came into contact with the pedestrian at a slow speed. Witnesses say the pedestrian then paused, and then jumped on the windshield of the Civic. The pedestrian was ultimately transported to the hospital and a warrant request was completed for the offence of Disorderly Conduct. Alcohol is believed to be a factor in the incident.
We’ve seen a recent uptick in the number of vehicle-vs-pedestrian crashes over the past few weeks. In many of these cases the pedestrian was attempting to cross the roadway outside of a crosswalk and with little regard for oncoming traffic. Any help we can get in sharing the following safety tips would be much appreciated:
- Always use crosswalks. It might seem like a hassle to walk halfway down the block to use a crosswalk, but it could prevent a serious accident.
- If a crosswalk is not available, look both ways and make sure the roadway is clear before attempting to cross the street. Don’t assume that a vehicle is going to see you.
- If walking at night, wear visible clothing.
- It’s been uncommonly warm for this time of the year. Motorists should be aware that there are pedestrians and bicyclists out and about. Whether you’re on a busy street or in a residential neighborhood. Slow down and stay alert.
- Stop for pedestrians at intersections and crosswalks. At crosswalks that aren’t controlled by walk signals, state law dictates that drivers must stop for pedestrians entering the crosswalk.
- Never pass another car stopped at a crosswalk. Accidents often happen when one lane of traffic stops for a pedestrian to cross, but the other lanes of traffic don’t.
