Sparks Pedestrian Crash Leaves Man Dead

A fatal pedestrian accident in Sparks, near Reno, is under investigation by the Nevada Highway Patrol. The victim, a 38-year-old man, was said to have been walking on McCarran Boulevard and attempted to cross at Nichols when he was hit by a gray Ford Explorer. The driver, Sean Bardin, 42, was driving south when the light changed to green. Apparently the victim was not out of the road in time, although he began crossing while the light was still red. Police believe it is likely that the driver did not see the pedestrian due to his dark clothing. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver is cooperating with the investigation.

PEDESTRIAN SAFETY – YOU ARE NEVER TOO OLD TO BE CAREFUL

Most people think of pedestrian accidents as affecting mostly small children. Certainly, children make up a large percentage of pedestrian accident victims. According to the Centers for Disease Control, of the 4,280 pedestrians killed, 19 percent were over the age of 65. However, child pedestrian fatalities made up 20 percent of all children killed in car crashes. While more adult pedestrians are killed than children, children are more likely to die in a pedestrian crash when they are involved in a traffic accident than other groups. What this means is that both adult and child pedestrians must be careful to use proper safety precautions when walking, especially close to busy roads. Here are some tips for staying safe as a pedestrian:

• Wear bright clothing. As this story shows, dark clothing makes it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians. Always wear bright clothing when walking and wear reflective strips or an orange vest when walking at night.
• Watch for traffic. Common sense will help you avoid most pedestrian crashes. Even if you have the right-of-way, do not step into the road if a car appears to be approaching fast and does not look as if it will stop. Assume the driver does not see you.
• Complete crossings quickly. If you must cross a street, do so quickly and safely. Never dawdle or talk on your cell phone. In fact, distractions such as cell phones should be avoided whenever you are walking near traffic.

If you are the victim of a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to payment of your medical bills and other costs by the responsible driver. Contact the injury lawyers at High Stakes Injury Law in Las Vegas for more information.