Bridgeport Hit and Run Shines A Brighter Light On Connecticut Pedestrian Accidents

A recent hit and run accident that occured at night in Bridgeport has city and state officials talking again on ways to curb the continued rise in Connecticut pedestrian accidents.  The victim of this hit and run was walking at night and not walking on a sidewalk, two things that are strongly discouraged by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA.)  

The state of Connecticut has recently put a new law into effect that is aimed at reducing the number of pedestrian deaths that are occuring in the state.  Over the last two years those being killed by motor vehicles while out walking has seen a sharp increase.  

Laws alone will not solve the issue however, it is incumbent upon those who are walking, especially at night to take precautions into their own hands.  Some of these steps that should be taken include the following;

• Only walk in well-lit areas.  If the lighting is poor it is recommended that you either use a ride share service or your own vehicle to get to your destination.
• Wear reflective clothing or add reflective tape to your clothing.  Making sure you are not wearing clothing that is difficult to see at night will allow traffic to avoid you more easily.
• Don’t walk at night.  If you can at all avoid it, do not walk at dusk or once night has fallen.  The deadliest pedestrian accidents are those that occur at night and more accidents occur at night then during the day.
• Obey all traffic laws.  Do not attempt to cross the road when there is not a crosswalk or lights to tell you when it is safe to cross.  If there is a no walk light, do not walk, even if it appears to be safe.

There are some times where you have to walk at night.  If it is unavoidable you can take some of the above steps to keep yourself safe and avoid a Connecticut pedestrian accident.  There are no safety measures or set of laws that will keep you 100% safe from getting into an accident, but if you take these precautions and follow all of the new laws that have been initiated in the state you are going to increase your safety chances.

If you or a loved one were injured as the result of an accident, you may need to speak with an attorney.  Our office has experienced attorneys ready to speak with you and work closely with you to protect your long-term interests.