Boston Personal Injury Attorney Blog

According to the Boston Public Health Commission's (BPHC) Walk This Way website, there are an estimated 2 million pedestrians in the City of Boston every day. Only about 600,000 people call the City of Boston home, but when you factor in workers and visitors to the city the number reaches roughly 2 million every single day.

With that many people walking through the city, Boston pedestrian accidents are likely and unfortunately going to happen. For that reason, the Walk This Way website is here to offer pedestrians in the city with some safety tips, quick facts and useful information to help to reduce the risks of pedestrian accidents in Boston.

Our Boston pedestrian accident lawyers understand that Boston roadways and sidewalks can be quite the hazard. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, there were nearly 50 pedestrian fatalities in 2009. During the first 6 months of 2010, there were already 25 pedestrian fatalities reported. With the cooperation of both motor vehicle drivers and pedestrians throughout the city, we can help to reduce these accident risks and make a city of safer travel for everyone.

According to a recent Walk This Way study:

-Only about 12 percent of pedestrians in the city wait for the "Walk" signal before crossing the street.

-Nearly 35 percent of pedestrians jaywalk at least 5 feet from a crosswalk.

-Approximately 95 percent of drivers yield to pedestrians when these on-foot travelers have the right-of-way. But only about 50 percent of drivers yield to pedestrians who cross against the light. Even fewer drivers slow down for jaywalkers.

The results of this study indicate that irresponsible pedestrian and driver behavior is a part of the dangerous risks for pedestrian-traffic accidents in the city. These habits are easily corrected with a little conscious effort towards safety from everyone.

Pedestrian Facts from the BPHC:

-The crosswalk in the safest place to cross the street.

-Check for traffic in all directions before stepping into a crosswalk to cross the street.

-If you're at an intersection with both a crosswalk and a traffic light, push the button and wait for the "Walk" signal before attempting to cross the road.

-At intersections with a crosswalk without a traffic light, pedestrians have the right-of-way. Be sure that approaching drivers see you and come to a complete stop before starting to cross the road.

-Use a sidewalk when one is available to you.

-When a sidewalk is not available, walk on the left-hand side of the road facing oncoming traffic.

-Always wear brightly-colored clothes or carry a flashlight with you when walking during the evening or early morning hours.

-Keep a watchful eye out for vehicles that are reversing out of parking spots or driveways.

-Remember that the fine for jaywalking in the city of Boston is $1.

Pedestrians are urged to take the Walk This Way Trivia Quiz to test out their walking skills and to freshen up their walking knowledge for a safer commute.

Continue reading "Millions at Risk for Pedestrian Accidents in Boston" »

Our Boston personal injury lawyers recently discussed the dangers of bicycle accidents at one main intersection in the city. While that intersection is definitely dangerous for bicyclists, it's also extremely dangerous for pedestrians. We're talking about the intersection of Vassar Street and Massachusetts Avenue. According to the Boston Globe, thousands of motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians cross through this intersection every day. Since 2007, there have been approximately 55 accidents reported at that intersection. One of them fatal and nearly 25 of them resulting in injury.

"For the amount of volume that goes through that intersection...I would say it is one of our highest accident locations in the city,'' said Police Deputy Superintendent Jack Albert.

Our Massachusetts bicycle accident lawyers are concluding our 6-part blog series with a discussion of the risks, dangers and consequences of pedestrian accidents in the state. This is the 6th entry of our blog series discussing New Year's Resolutions that residents can take in 2012 to make our roadways safer for everyone.

Road design enhancements were made to Massachusetts Avenue last year. But many believe that not enough has been done. Officials with MIT urged transportation officials to adjust the timing of the traffic lights to make the intersection more pedestrian friendly. Still, the Vassar Street and Massachusetts Avenue intersection remains one of the city's top hot spots for these types of accidents. In 2011, there were nearly 20 accidents reported there, making it second in the top five most dangerous intersections in Massachusetts. The number one most dangerous intersections was at Gardner Street and Massachusetts Avenue in Harvard Square.

According to city records, of the 55 accidents that occurred at this intersection since 2007, three of them involved pedestrians. A majority of these accidents involved motorists making right-hand turns and colliding with bicyclists and pedestrians because they just failed to see them.

Nationwide statistics reveal that there are nearly 110 million Americans who walk regularly as a mode of transportation. The New England area accounts for more than 10 percent of these pedestrians.

According to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the City of Boston is ranked one of the most dangerous areas for pedestrian accidents out of the country's 52 largest metropolitan areas. In Boston, an average of 485 pedestrians were killed on our city's roadways from 2000 to 2009, according to Transportation for America.

Our Boston pedestrian accident lawyers are asking residents to be cautious when walking through the city. We understand the convenience that comes with walking in the area, but we ask that everyone be cautious when doing so. Be cautious and alert for passing motorists. Our sidewalks may be flooded with pedestrians, but our roadways are flooded with dangerous drivers. Let's all work together to travel safely among one another to enjoy a safe 2012.

Continue reading "New Year's Resolution to Help Curb Pedestrian Accidents in Boston" »

"This intersection makes me nervous,'' Marcia Pearson, a Somerville bicyclist, told a newspaper recently.

What Pearson is talking about the intersection of Vassar Street and Massachusetts Avenue. According to local police officers, it's an extremely dangerous intersection. Every day, there are thousands of motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists who use the intersection near the Massachusetts Institute of Technology campus. Intersection car accidents in Massachusetts are common at this intersection because of the high volume of traffic that this intersection withstands all day long.

Our Boston car accident lawyers understand that Cambridge officers responded to nearly 60 accidents at this intersection in 2007. Of those, 24 involved vehicles and bikes. Many resulted in injury, and some in death, according to The Boston Globe. For this reason, officers are targeting this intersection as a part of a roadway safety campaign that is being used by officials to improve traffic safety across the city, cracking down on those who violate traffic laws.

According to Jack Albert, Police Deputy Superintendent, accidents are inevitable with so many people using this intersection daily, even though there have already been efforts made to make the intersection safer.

Last year, road enhancements were made on Mass Ave, but officials with MIT urge the state's transportation department to change the timing to the traffic lights at the intersections to make the intersection safer.

But even with the improvements, there were 16 accidents at the intersection last year. According to the Police Department's list of the top five most dangerous intersections of 2011 in the city, this intersection ranked second, right behind Massachusetts Avenue and Gardner Street in Harvard Square.

This is the fourth entry of a 6-part blog discussing simple New Year's resolutions residents can make to increase the safety of all travelers on our roadways. This blog entry will be discussing simple adjustments that travelers can make at intersections to help reduce the number of accidents that we see every year in these areas.

Safe Driving Tips from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts:

-Always obey the speed limit. Remember that posted speed limits are the limits for ideal weather conditions. Slow down in poor weather conditions, like snow, fog and rain.

-Follow the two-second rule. Never tailgate. Allow vehicles around with you ample space. The more space between you and other vehicles the longer reaction time you allow yourself.

-Always use your turn signal to alert drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists about your intended maneuvers.

-Respect the crosswalk. You want to stop behind the line when stopping for a traffic light. Don't block these walkways.

-Never blog an intersection. Make sure you can make it safely through the entire intersection safely before proceeding through.

-Put down the distractions. Passing through an intersection requires your full attention.

Continue reading "Massachusetts Avenue: A Common Backdrop for Intersection Car Accidents in Boston" »

A Worcester pedestrian accident killed a woman who was walking across the street on a marked crosswalk on Chandler Street. According to Worcester police officers, the accident happened just before 7 a.m. and upon arrival, the body of a 63-year-old woman was discovered. The female pedestrian was involved in a single-car accident and sustained severe injuries. She was taken to St. Vincent Hospital where she was later pronounced dead.

According to My Fox Boston, investigations concluded that a 51-year-old driver of a van slammed directly into the pedestrian who was using the crosswalk to get across the street. The driver was the only one in the vehicle at the time of the accident and he remained at the scene of the accident until officials arrived. The speed limit on that street is 30 miles per hour. Officials with the Worcester Police Accident Reconstruction Team are investigating.

Our Massachusetts pedestrian accident lawyers understand that our roadways are congested, especially during and after the holidays. We often hear warnings for drivers urging them to be cautious of one another on the roadways to avoid an accident, but many seem to forget the dangers that pedestrians face as well. Pedestrians face an increased risk for accidents just as motorists do when the roads are crowded. All travelers are urged to be cautious and courteous of one another throughout out the year..

The recent Thanksgiving holiday weekend provided a sneak peek into just how dangerous travel can be during holidays can be. According to the Boston Herald, a 47-year-old female pedestrian was killed while crossing a street in Worcester over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

Another Thanksgiving holiday weekend accident turned fatal when a 75-year-old motorist from Somerville was hit by a passing vehicle as he got out of his car to exchange information with another driver that he had been involved in an accident with just seconds prior.

A third Thanksgiving accident injured two people as they were standing in the travel lane on Route 128 in Lynnfield and were hit by a passing motorist.

As we continuously ask drivers to be cautious, alert and courteous at the wheel, we also ask pedestrians to travel safely. Keep an eye on your surroundings to avoid a potentially fatal accident.

Pedestrian Safety Tips:

-Always use a crosswalk when one is available. Most pedestrian accidents happen at non-intersection areas because drivers don't expect pedestrians to cross.

-If you've been involved in a motor-vehicle accident, stay inside your car until police get there, especially if the accident is on a busy roadway.

-Pedestrians should always carry a flashlight and wear bright, reflective clothing when walking during the evening hours.

-Always walk on a sidewalk when there's one available. When there is no sidewalk, you should walk facing traffic to see oncoming cars.

Continue reading "Crowded Roadways Increase Risks for Pedestrian Accidents in Boston and Elsewhere" »

Recently, Somerville was named the 10th-most walkable city in the United States, according to Walk Boston. The announcement comes on the heels of the programs the city executed to make the walkways safer to help reduce the risks of pedestrian accidents in Somerville.

Joseph Curtatone, the Mayor of Somerville, has conducted a number of extensive projects to make the area safer for pedestrians over the last few years. These projects were used to make the city safer, to improve the health or residents and to help to boost the local economy.

Our Massachusetts pedestrian accident lawyers understand that pedestrian traffic is an important part of the state. Residents and visitors commute to areas across the state on a daily basis. Safe-walking initiatives should be an important part of all local government. The pedestrian population is an important part of our community and needs to be protected and embraced.

"The city has been working to improve walkability for eight years," Somerville's Director of Parks and OpenSpace Arn Franzen. "When the Mayor came in, it was one of his main agendas."

The City of Somerville was name as the 10th-most walkable city in the United States by the Walkscore.com website. This site ranks city's walkways based on how well residents and visitors are able to safely travel throughout the area without the use of a motor vehicle. The city was ranked in at 10th place out of all cities with a population of more than 10,000 and was ranked in 5th place for cities with a population of more than 70,000.

The rankings are determined by residents' ability to walk throughout the area. The rankings are scored from 0 to 100. One-hundred meaning that there is no need for a vehicle and zero meaning that a traveler is required to be car-dependent.

Every single resident in Somerville got a score of at least 70, meaning that errands within the city could all be done on foot.

According to Nicole Rioles, the Regional Active Transit Director, the city's new programs were used to effectively accommodate more walkers, including pedestrians with disabilities, to help to make sure that all pedestrians are safe. The new designs focused on road and intersection designs and their ability to protect pedestrians. The city created safer sidewalks that are now more visible to both pedestrians and motor vehicles.

City officials understand the impact of pedestrian-friendly roadways. According to Justin Hollander, the Assistant Professor of Urban and Environmental Policy and Planning, the "walkability" of a city directly correlates with the amount of air-pollution. The safer pedestrians feel, the more they'll walk and less green house emissions we see.

Although our roadways are getting safer and more pedestrians are hitting the city's sidewalk, residents are urged to be cautious and alert while walking through in the area. Aside from safe walkways, safe traveling habits may be your best defense against an accident.

Continue reading "Somerville Pedestrian Accidents Unlikely; Ranked 10th Safest in U.S." »

A recent pedestrian accident in Worcester took the life of a 60-year-old man. It happened on Lincoln Street around 10 a.m. when a 30-year-old driver who was heading northwest and allegedly struck the pedestrian as he crossed that street at an intersection.

The Worcester Police Department was called to the accident and when paramedics arrived, the man was pronounced dead at the scene. The exact cause of death has yet to be determined, and medical professionals are awaiting the results of the autopsy. The speed limit on that four-lane roadway is 30 miles per hour, according to My Fox Boston. Officials have not determined if the driver was speeding.

Our Boston pedestrian accident lawyers understand that traffic will be picking up on our roadways throughout the remainder of the year. The holiday season brings out travelers from across the country. While motorists will be facing increased risks for an accident, pedestrians and bicyclists will be at heightened risks as well. All travelers are urged to be safe, cautious and considerate during travel throughout the remainder of the year.

An earlier pedestrian accident left an elderly pedestrian with severe head injuries. The accident happened just outside of an elderly living neighborhood in Wollaston.

According to Quincy Police Capt. John Dougan, the pedestrian was transported to a hospital in Boston with "severe head injuries" after the accident that happened at Cheriton Road and Hancock Street around 12:00 p.m. Officers are investigating the accident and a reconstruction team is looking into the accident, according to The Patriot Ledger.

A third pedestrian accident seriously injured a 55-year-old woman from Somerville. The accident happened when she was hit by a Department of Public Works dump truck shortly after 8:00 a.m. The incident took place in Union Square at the Webster Avenue and Washington Street intersection.

The woman was transported to Massachusetts General Hospital and was last listed in critical condition, according to Deputy Police Chief Paul Upton. The driver was also transported to a local hospital. Both the Somerville police and state police are looking into the accident.

According to Massachusetts' Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, more than 20 percent of all Massachusetts motor-vehicle fatalities in 2008 involved pedestrians. There were roughly 365 traffic-related fatalities during that year. There were nearly 250 pedestrians injured during the same time.

With Christmas and New Year's approaching, we can expect more visitors to the area and more vacation days away from work. During this time, the number of motor vehicle and pedestrian accidents is expected to skyrocket. Travelers are urged to be conscious of one another and navigate safely to help avoid any holiday traffic accidents. With a conscious effort to exercise safe travel habits, we can all do out part to keep our roadways safe throughout the remainder of 2011.

Continue reading "Recent String of Massachusetts Pedestrian Accidents Highlights Risks through Holidays" »

A Revere man was involved in a recent and unusual pedestrian accident in Massachusetts. It all happened as the 70-year-old man was waiting for his turn to cross the street and a 200-foot hose that was hanging off the side of a fire truck flew over and struck him unexpectedly. Luckily, a security camera nearby was able to catch the whole thing on tape, according to NECN.

The accident happened at the corner of Dale and Park. Witnesses reported that the pedestrian was struck pretty hard and was left in horrible condition. The accident could have turned out much differently though. The same type of accident took the life of an 83-year-old pedestrian in Cambridge about two years ago.

Our Boston personal injury attorneys understand that the fire department has announced that it's making changes to its safety procedures since the accident, but these accidents cannot be prevented unless employees and departments exercise precautions. The fire department reported that it has ordered special netting kits for all of the trucks' engines that were manufactured after 2008. That's when a safety measure was passed to require that trucks have this safety feature.

"It caught his legs and flipped him up in the air," said Fire Chief Eugene Doherty.

This netting is used to cover up the hoses on these trucks to prevent them from flying off while in motion. The department has two additional trucks, but those were made after 2008 and already have the safety netting.

"It's something the manufacturers saw fit to do in 2008," said Doherty.

Doherty goes on to say that he's not blaming the manufacturers for the accident, but he says safety precautions should have been more specific and should have been required on all trucks.

The chief thinks that the hose may have fallen loose because the nozzle wasn't positioned correctly. He says the hose's nozzle should have been kept in the middle of the compartment that's located on the top of the fire truck. He believes that the nozzle could have been positioned too close to the edge. All of the firefighters at that department are going through more training courses to help them to ensure that the nozzle is properly stored. He says all fire chiefs should consider retraining their fighters.

Since a recent meeting among area chiefs, all concluded that safety procedures need to be reassessed.

"Wrong place at wrong time," said one of the victim's neighbors.

A family member of the victim reports that the 70-year-old man is in the hospital being treated for broken bones and a concussion.

If you've been involved in an accident with a government or county vehicle, it is critical for you to contact an attorney to help you represent the case. Oftentimes these parties are able to fight with the help of large and powerful representatives. Legal representation can help you to gain the compensation you deserve.

Continue reading "70-Year-Old Injured in Pedestrian Accident in Massachusetts with Fire Truck's Hose" »

With Halloween right around the corner on Oct. 31, the state of Massachusetts and our Boston personal injury attorneys would like to offer some advice to help you and your little ones be safe on this scary holiday.

Did you know that your child is four times more likely to be injured in a pedestrian accident in Massachusetts than any other night of the year? We can all help to greatly reduce these risks by providing our little trick-or-treaters with proper supervision and pedestrian safety tips. So before you suit up your little ghosts and goblins, review the following tips and share them with your young ones.

Halloween safety tips from the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal:

-Make sure that all your trick-or-treaters are supervised by a responsible adult.

-Review these safety tips for children who are old enough to venture out on their own.

-Make sure that you are familiar with the neighborhoods you'll be trick-or-treating in. You should plan a route that has minimal traffic and has safe sidewalks.

-Make sure to keep your trick-or-treating clan together. Never separate from one another.

-Always carry a cell phone with you in case of emergencies.

-Always walk along sidewalks.

-Always cross the road at street corners.

-Never dart out from behind a parked car.

-Cover one side of the street at a time. Don't crisscross from side to side while trick-or-treating.

-Make sure children know to never enter a stranger's home or vehicle.

-Only trick-or-treat at homes that are well-lit. Don't approach homes without any lights on.

-Make sure everyone is wearing comfortable shoes.

-Attache reflective tape to all costumes or require trick-or-treaters to carry a flashlight. Another way to help ensure your children are "well lit" to be seen is by placing a flashlight in their treat bags.

-Consider using face paint instead of masks, which can obstruct your child's vision.

-Children should never walk across a person's lawn.

Halloween safety tips for drivers:

-Keep an eye out for witches, rock stars and little celebrities when driving in residential areas.

-If you're driving your children to trick-or-treat from neighborhood to neighborhood, drop them off on the curb side of the road. Never allow them to exit the vehicle on the road side.

-Always use your blinkers so that little goblins know where your vehicle's heading.

-You should never drive drunk.

-It's wise to drive under the speed limit in residential neighborhoods and school zones on Halloween night.

It's important to keep a watchful eye out for our young trick-or-treaters. They are extremely vulnerable for pedestrian accidents as they're less likely to understand the workings and dangers of moving traffic. Be on your best behavior and help your child stay safe and you never know, they may share some of their sweet treats with you. From our Boston personal injury attorneys to your family, have a safe and happy Halloween!

Continue reading "Keep Your Trick-or-Treaters Safe from Pedestrian Accidents in Massachusetts this Halloween" »

Getting to and from your destination in Massachusetts often only warrants a short bike ride or a quick walk down the street. But some residents are thinking twice before making these journeys by bicycle or on foot after the release of a new study that found the top 200 most dangerous intersections for car, bicycle and pedestrian accidents in Massachusetts.

Some of the most vulnerable people in these pedestrian accidents are children heading to and from school. In an attempt to help keep these children safe, the report comes with a list of the areas that have the most dangerous crosswalks, according to ABC5.

Our Boston child injury attorneys recommend that parents review these maps and choose a walking route to school that has crossing guards at the dangerous intersections that your child may have to cross. We also want you to make sure that your child is of the proper age to walk to school. Cambridge Deputy Police Superintendent Jack Albert says that you should never let your child walk to or from school without you if there is the slightest possibility that he or she could get lost or unable to gauge traffic dangers. Make sure your child never makes the journey alone. If they're under the age of 10, walk to school with them.

Albert says that a bulk of the responsibility lies in the hands of drivers.

"Slow down. Make sure your head is on a swivel. You're always looking. You always want to see where the kids are," Albert told ABC5.

These dangerous areas are calculated from a variety of factors, including the number of accidents and the number of people who were injured and killed.

Most Dangerous Boston Intersections from 2007 to 2009:

-Gallivan Boulevard and Granite Avenue: 43 accidents.

-Columbia Road and Dorchester Avenue: 43 accidents.

-Blue Hill Avenue and Morton Street: 36 accidents.

Most Dangerous Lowell Intersections from 2007 to 2009:

-Veterans of Foreign Wars Highway and Varnum Avenue: 137 accidents.

-Plain Street and Chelmsford Street: 125 accidents.

-Middlesex Street and Wood Street: 121 accidents.

-Bridge Street and Veterans of Foreign Wars Highway: 93 accidents.

Most Dangerous Brockton Intersections from 2007 to 2009:

-Pleasant Street and West Street: 90 accidents.

-Belmont Street: 58 accidents.

-East Main Street and Curtis Avenue: 101 accidents.

-Ash Street and West Elm Street: 59 accidents.

Massachusetts Avenue, specifically between Sydney Street and Pleasant Avenue in Cambridge, experienced nearly 95 pedestrian accidents in a two-year period. Two pedestrians were killed and nearly 45 were injured.

Chelsea reportedly had the most dangerous crosswalks in the state. Washington and Park Streets are commonly referred to as a "pedestrian crash cluster." This area got this name because of all of the accidents there -- nearly 130 reported in the two-year time frame. There were 95 people hurt and one pedestrian killed.

Continue reading "Top 200 Most Dangerous Intersections in Massachusetts Illustrate Risks of Pedestrian Accidents in Boston and Elsewhere" »

"The baby boom generation grew up and reared their own children in communities that, for the first time in human history, were built on the assumption that everyone would be able to drive an automobile," said John Robert Smith, president and CEO of Reconnecting America and co-chair of Transportation for America. "What happens when people in this largest generation ever, with the longest predicted lifespan ever, outlive their ability to drive for everything? That's one of the questions we set out to answer in this report."

The report he's talking about is the Aging in Place, Stuck without Options report that ranks large, metro areas by the percentage of seniors that have poor access to public transportation, now and in the coming years; it offers other data on aging and transportation issues. Many of these issues involve the increased risks of elderly pedestrian accidents in Massachusetts and elsewhere.

Our Boston personal injury attorneys understand that the population of Americans that are 65 and older and live in communities where public transportation service is poor or non-existent is expected to reach 15.5 million by 2015. We will be even closer to that predicted number as the baby boom generation grows rapidly and "ages in place" in suburbs and exurbs with few transportation options for those who don't drive.

This study aims to figure out how cash-strapped states and local governments will come up with the funds to help accommodate these residents. Researchers believe that these governments will be turning to federal support to help them meet their needs.

In this report, Boston is ranked as the 8th largest metro area, with a population of 3 million or more, with an expected population of residents age 65 to 70 that will have poor access to transit features in 2015. Researchers predict that 231,944, or 45 percent, of people in this age group will be hindered by the lack of access.

Metro areas are encouraged to look into expanding public transit systems to be able to address the mobility needs of these older residents. Communities are also urged to get proactive and to support the creation of community-based programs, like volunteer programs, flex-routes, service routes and deviated fixed-routes that can be tailored to the needs of the residents. These programs should include senior-friendly shuttles to shopping centers, medical facilities and local services. They should also consider flexible route services that can provide transportation for those who have short notice or spontaneous travel requirements. These transit options should also be able to accommodate residents who require wheelchairs or shopping carts.

"The vast majority of people age 50-plus want to stay in their homes for as long as possible, according to our research," said AARP Executive Vice President Nancy LeaMond. "When they do move, they most often want to stay in their communities."

By offering more public transit options that these elderly residents can effectively use, we can help to reduce their risks of potentially fatal pedestrian accidents in the Greater Boston area.

Continue reading "New Study Urges Metro to Areas Seek Transportation Options to Reduce Risks of Elderly Pedestrian Accidents in Boston and Elsewhere" »

A Taunton teen was hit and killed in a Massachusetts car-pedestrian accident. The teen was out riding his skateboard when he was hit on Bay Street at about 9:40 p.m. one night earlier this month, according to Boston 5.

The driver of the vehicle that collided into the skateboarder did not stop, but instead fled northbound, according to the Bristol County District Attorney's Office. Police immediately issued an alert for the driver of that vehicle. The skateboarder was left with a severe brain injury that later took his life.

Officers closed down a large section of Bay Street near Watson Pond State Park for more than three hours as they photographed, reconstructed and investigated the scene of the accident.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of that 17-year-old boy. Our Boston wrongful death lawyers understand that he was just weeks away from getting his driver's license. Children are more vulnerable to bicycling, skateboarding and other types of pedestrian accidents. For this reason, motorists are asked to be extremely cautious when navigating in areas where children may be.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were more than 4,000 pedestrian fatalities in 2009. Nearly 250 of these deaths were of child pedestrians age 14-years-old and younger. Nearly 20 percent of the total number of traffic fatalities for this age group was pedestrian deaths. Males accounted for 159 of the young age group's pedestrian deaths. During that same year, another 59,000 pedestrians were injured. The young population account for 13,000 of those injuries. Males accounted for approximately 55 percent of the young pedestrians that were injured.

Those age 14-years-old and younger had the highest percentage of pedestrian fatalities between 4 p.m. and 7:59 p.m. Accidents during this specific time accounted for more than 40 percent of the fatal incidents. The next highest percentage of fatalities among this young age group was between the hours of 12:00 p.m. and 3:59 p.m., accounting for more than 20 percent of the fatalities.

Nearly three-fourths of the young pedestrian fatalities happened at non-intersection locations in 2009.

Parents Magazine offers these pedestrian safety tips to children and teens:

-Be sure to look both ways before crossing the street. Pedestrians should never run into the street without looking.

-Always try to make eye contact with drivers when you're crossing the road.

-Avoid using roads that don't have sidewalks. You should also try not to cross busy streets that don't have crosswalks.

-You should always walk in the opposite direction of traffic. Make sure that you're facing oncoming cars. This way you're more aware of the vehicles that are coming towards you.

-Always keep children from playing in a street, parking lot or driveway.

-Don't run through intersections. Walk so you're less likely to trip and fall.

-Always try to take the safest route with the least amount of street crossings.

-Make sure you wear bright, reflective clothing during dawn, dusk or any low-light situations.

-Always abide by traffic signals and signs. Remember that they aren't just for cars.

-Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Try making your own list about pedestrian safety with your child and post it on the fridge or the front door where they can see it before heading out every day.

Continue reading "Young Skateboarder Killed by Hit-and-Run Driver in Massachusetts Car Accident " »

A 68-year-old man was walking at the corner of Water and Edgell last Saturday night when he was hit by two motor vehicles, according to the Framingham Patch. The vehicle that hit the pedestrian pulled over to the side of the road after the collision. As the vehicle pulled over, a second vehicle struck the pedestrian that was lying in the road. The Massachusetts pedestrian accident happened at about 9:00 p.m.

The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Framingham Police Lt. Ron Brandolini. The accident is currently being investigated by the Massachusetts State Police Accident Reconstruction unit.

Our Boston personal injury attorneys understand the dangers pedestrians face, especially when walking near busy roadways. These dangers only increase as the sun falls and visibility is reduced. Motorists are asked to keep an eye out for pedestrians on our roadways, regardless of what time of day it may be.

Framingham Police do not know if they'll cite either driver.

According to the Federal Analysis Reporting System (FARS), more than 4,000 pedestrians were killed in the United States in 2009 alone. Pedestrian accidents accounted for more than 10 percent of all traffic fatalities for the entire year. Pedestrian accidents accounted for nearly 5 percent of all traffic-accident related injuries in 2009. More than 90 percent of all pedestrian deaths happened in single-vehicle accidents.

More than 75 percent of pedestrian deaths occurred at non-intersection areas in 2009. Pedestrians are most likely to be hit by a motor vehicle during normal weather conditions in comparison to snowy, rainy or foggy weather conditions. Nearly 40 percent of these fatal accidents occurred between 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. in the evening. Half of them happened on either a Friday, Saturday or a Sunday.

Nearly 20 percent of these pedestrians who were killed on our roadways were 65 and older. Children between the ages of 5 and 9 also made up nearly 20 percent of these fatality rates. In 2009, nearly 70 percent of pedestrians that were killed on our roadways were males.

In 2009, Massachusetts witnessed nearly 50 pedestrian fatalities.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers these tips to pedestrians to stay safe near our busy roadways:

• Be sure to always cross the street at a designated cross walk.


• Be careful at intersections. While drivers are supposed to give pedestrians the right-of-way, they may not always so do. Be on the lookout for oncoming cars.


• Make sure you wear light colored, reflective clothing or carry a flashlight to increase your visibility.


• Try to stay on a sidewalk. If you must walk on the street, make sure you walk facing traffic.

Continue reading "68-Year-Old Hit by Two Cars and Killed in Framingham Pedestrian Accident" »

The 2011 edition of the pedestrian safety report has recently been released by Transportation for America. This newly released data analyzes fatalities from pedestrian accidents in Boston and elsewhere in the United States between 2000 and 2009.

After the release of this data, Dangerous by Design 2011 will examine the problem areas and construct potential solutions to prevent these deadly accidents. Dangerous by Design will be looking at the 47,000 pedestrian fatalities, and 688,000 pedestrian injuries.

Our Boston pedestrian attorneys understand the importance of this report. According to these findings, Massachusetts suffered nearly 1,000 pedestrian fatalities in the study period. These accidents cost our state more than $3 billion. Our state is ranked 42nd, out of the 50 states, on the Pedestrian Danger Index (PDI). Pedestrian fatalities for those over the age of 65 ranks 10th in the nation.

These fatal accidents seriously affected some of Massachusetts' most densely populated areas:

-Boston/Cambridge/Quincy, 483 pedestrian deaths

-Providence/New Bedford/Fall River, 186 pedestrian deaths

-Springfield, 83 pedestrian deaths

-Worcester, 82 pedestrian deaths

-Barnstable Town, 20 pedestrian deaths

-Pittsfield, 18 pedestrian deaths

That's the great thing about the newly released data. It comes with state-specific information. It provides the user with an interactive pedestrian map that allows user to zoom in to their own community to see just how many fatal pedestrian accidents have occurred during the study period.

If you look at the interactive map, you'll notice that a majority of these pedestrian accidents happened along "arterial" roadways across the nation that are not created with pedestrians in mind. These streets are designed to accommodate speedy traffic instead.

Many advocates who support these fast-travel highways protest that pedestrian safety is the sole responsibility of the local government. But, statistics prove otherwise as nearly 70 percent of pedestrian fatalities have occurred along these federal-aid roads over the last 10 years.

This only leads us to believe that federal programs continue to persuade state governments to place their focus of fast-travel roads instead of on the safety of pedestrians in neighborhoods and shopping districts.

Still, Congress continues to contemplate the elimination of such funds altogether.

If you would like to contact Congress and urge them to continue the funding of pedestrian safety projects with your tax dollars, you are urge to submit your zip code to our website to ensure your message to the appropriate recipient.

Continue reading "New Report Ranks Fatal Massachusetts Pedestrian Accidents" »

An oncoming car struck a 22-year-old female pedestrian as she stepped into the road at the corner of Dorchester Avenue and West Broadway as she focused her attention on her text message instead of oncoming traffic, according to Boston.com. To make matters worse, the motorist was paying as little attention as the pedestrian was as the car ran over the young woman's foot.

Last September, Massachusetts banned texting behind the wheel, but texting pedestrians remains legal. With summer upon us, many pedestrians will be hitting our sidewalks to soak up the beautiful weather and motorists are urged to be on the lookout. Distracted driving may soon be a thing of the past as distracted pedestrians are reportedly colliding with cars, telephone poles, tumbling down stairs, slipping off curb, and colliding with into other pedestrians. Pedestrian accidents in Boston may soon outnumber car accidents.

In all seriousness, our Boston personal injury lawyers understand the popularity of our handheld devices, but we need not forget the importance of alert and cautious travel. We urge pedestrians and motorists to work together to help keep our roadways injury-free during these beautiful months that are rolling in.

According to nationwide research conducted at Ohio State University, pedestrian texting accidents resulted in more than 1,000 visits to the emergency room in 2008. Unfortunately, these statistics were examined when Americans were sending a mere 1 trillion texts. Americans are now sending more than 2 trillion texts. The study expects new numbers to come out next month.

"I'm not sure people realize they are putting themselves at risk,'' said Jack Nasar, a professor of city and regional planning at Ohio State.

As many pedestrians take their eyes off the road, motorists need to increase their awareness of their travels. While pedestrians create obstacles by themselves with their focus on their phones, a pedestrian's biggest threat is a collision with a motor vehicle.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 4,000 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents in 2009. Another 59,000 pedestrians were injured that same year. Pedestrian deaths made up 12 percent of all traffic fatalities and 3 percent of traffic injuries in 2009.

Massachusetts witnessed almost 50 pedestrian traffic fatalities in 2009 alone.

To help preserve the safety of pedestrians, PR Web offers these tips to motorists:
-Always be aware of your surroundings. Check your peripheral vision often as dangers can lurk from all sides.

-Look, and look again, before turning. This is especially important to remember when making a right turn on red. Be sure to check that crosswalks are clear before turning.

-Pay attention to weather and traffic conditions. Be sure to adjust your speed accordingly, especially when it is raining and your visibility is reduced.

-Always activate your turn signal when attempting a maneuver. If there are no vehicles around you, you should put on your blinker so that pedestrians you may not have seen know your next move.

Continue reading "Motorists Have New Threats for Boston Car Accidents -- Texting Pedestrians" »

A new technology, already used to decrease the risk of motor-vehicle accidents, could soon be used to help reduce the risks of pedestrian accidents in Boston and elsewhere in the United States, according to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS). The crash prevention technology will have the potential to prevent cars from hitting pedestrians. Now, your car will be able to spot a pedestrian in its path and automatically brake if the driver fails to do so.

Our Boston personal injury lawyers note that researches have found the most common pedestrian-vehicle accidents occur when a person is crossing a road and a vehicle is traveling straight. The most surprising aspect of these crashes is that, in most cases, there is no braking reported. These crashes occur mostly during the day, but the most fatal ones occur during the nighttime hours.

Massachusetts alone endured nearly 50 of these pedestrian fatalities in 2009.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Association reports that there were more than 4,000 pedestrian fatalities resulting from traffic accidents in 2009. While this number is a 7 percent decrease from the year before, it is important that everyone do their part to avoid a pedestrian accident this summer.

In 2011, the forward collision warning system was offered on 19 new vehicle makes. Other crash avoidance technologies currently offered in new vehicle are the lane departure warning system, adaptive headlights and side view assist. The IIHS estimates that more than 1 million accidents, including nearly 800 fatal accidents, could be prevented or mitigated if every vehicle was equipped with this new forward collision warning technology. The Institute is reporting that pedestrian detection systems could help to prevent another 39,000 accidents -- and nearly 3,300 fatalities.

"The most difficult part is actually to make sure that the car does not brake when
it's not supposed to," says Thomas Broberg, senior technical adviser for safety at Volvo.
"You would never accept a car that brakes every time you pass a mailbox." The technology is still in developmental phases.

Continue reading "New Technology Aims to Decrease the Risk of Pedestrian Accidents in Boston and Elsewhere" »