Pedestrian accidents are an ever-increasing issue in cities across Maryland. Officers in one city in particular are taking a stand and have increased their focus on pedestrian safety. There is no question that the damages that often result from these car accidents can be quite severe. As such, pedestrian safety operations like this one certainly serve a valuable purpose.
The Frederick Police Department recently began a campaign to improve pedestrian safety in the downtown area. Law enforcement officers will be targeting drivers who fail to stop for pedestrians in designated crosswalks. According to county records, out of 36 auto-pedestrian accidents, 33 people were injured and one individual was killed. With numbers like these, it is easy to understand where the urgency to promote pedestrian safety is coming from.
According to the Frederick Police Department, 96 citations have been issued recently to drivers who failed to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks. Sadly, when it comes to auto-pedestrian incidents, pedestrians do not have any protection and simply do not stand much of a chance against the size and weight of an automobile or other motor vehicle. For this reason, officers are using this operation to not only catch those who ignore state laws regarding crosswalk safety but to educate the public as well.
Pedestrian involved car accidents simply are concerning and can lead to a great deal of physical, emotional and financial suffering. Those who have been injured or lost a loved one in this type of incident may be entitled to take legal action against the individual believed responsible in an effort to recover any financial losses endured as a result. Personal injury or wrongful death claims may be filed in a Maryland civil court. If liability is established, a monetary judgment may be awarded to the victim or — in the event of fatality — the victim’s family members as compensation for any damages sustained.
Source: your4state.com, “Crosswalk Enforcement a Top Priority for Frederick Police”, Shayna Halper, Sept. 22, 2014