Written by: Michaella Radich
On the morning of Tuesday, October 6, 2015, a 17-year-old student of Chamberlin High School, Alexis Miranda, was crossing Busch Boulevard, when she was struck by a car and killed. The incident occurred about two blocks west of North Boulevard. Sadly, this type of fatal accident involving pedestrians is not uncommon in the Tampa area.
After the death of an 8-year-old girl on Busch Boulevard in 2013, Tampa City Council announced that increasing pedestrian safety on Busch was an urgent matter. As part of this effort, the city paid $1 million to fix sidewalks, repaint crosswalks, and add crosswalk countdown signs for pedestrians.
The major problem for pedestrians on Busch Boulevard, is that there are stretches as long as half a mile, without any crosswalks at all. This means many pedestrians try to cross the four- and six-lane road at their own discretion. Busch Boulevard, however, is not the only road where these fatal accidents involving pedestrians occur in Tampa Bay. East Hillsborough Avenue was the scene of crashes killing two 15-year-old pedestrians, one in 2011 and one in 2014.
Being cautious and aware of your surroundings is the best way to stay safe, whether you are walking or driving. For pedestrians, it is crucial to cross in designated crossing areas, because this is where drivers are actively looking and expecting for them to cross. Flashing lights have been added to many crosswalks in the Tampa area to increase driver awareness and pedestrian safety.
As a driver, you not only have to look out for other vehicles, but for pedestrians. While pedestrians should use crosswalks, especially on busy roads with multiple lanes, they often cross in areas that are not designated. For the safety of the pedestrian and driver, drivers should always be on the lookout for pedestrians crossing the street and veering off sidewalks.
Should you or a loved one be involved in an automobile accident, Blick Law Firm is here to help you. Visit our office or call 888.973.2776 for a free consultation with one of our trusted personal injury attorneys today!
Source: http://www.tampabay.com/news/publicsafety/accidents/chamberlain-high-student-17-struck-and-killed-by-car-in-tampa/2248543
