Police say that late last week a pedestrian was killed and a paramedic was seriously injured after a drunk driver crashed into them with his truck at the scene of an earlier accident. Police say the first accident occurred at 8:30 in the evening near the intersection of Bullard Street and Gymnasium Drive. EMTs responded to the first accident and very soon thereafter were involved in the fatal wreck.
Police say the accident was the third in less than two weeks in Jackson where a pedestrian has been hit by a passenger vehicle. On July 25th a pedestrian was hit by a truck along I-20. A week before that a Jackson police officer was hit and killed by a vehicle on I-55. Tupelo saw a pedestrian fatality last week when a jogger was killed after being struck by a passing vehicle.
Police in Jackson arrested Robert Howard, a 44-year-old, for aggravated DUI and aggravated DUI injury. Officers say that police are still attempting to identify the deceased pedestrian. Prior to the fatal accident he was being treated for a broken arm after being hit by a Chevrolet Caprice. Police say the paramedic was also seriously injured in the crash, losing an eye as a result of her injuries. She also sustained a severe head trauma and had a number of broken bones.
Recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that in 2010, pedestrian deaths in Mississippi represented eight percent of all traffic fatalities in the state. That year a total of 50 pedestrians died in traffic accidents across Mississippi, ranking the state as the 10th highest in terms of pedestrian death rate.
Across the country an astounding 13 pedestrians are killed in auto accidents every day. This number should serve as a shocking reminder of how dangerous something as simple as going for a walk can be. Pedestrians out for a stroll should remember to use sidewalks whenever possible and only cross or enter streets where it is legal to do so. If no sidewalks are available, it’s typically safer to walk facing oncoming traffic. Also, try and make it easy for drivers to spot you by dressing in light colors or reflective materials. Carrying a flashlight is another good idea. Finally, watch out for drivers and be wary. Though most drivers are good people, pedestrians cannot count on others to always pay attention.
Our lawyers know the emotional and physical damage caused by people who drink and drive. If you’ve been hurt in a drunk driving accident, you want a lawyer who understands your needs. If you have been injured and think you may have a personal injury claim, please contact the Madison / Jackson personal injury attorneys at Kilpatrick & Philley at 601-707-4669.
Source: “Driver arrested after allegedly killing pedestrian, injuring paramedic,” by Lee Howard, published at ClarionLedger.com.
See Our Related Blog Posts:
Alcohol Factor In Deadly Mississippi Car Accident
10 Dead on Mississippi Roadways Over Holiday Weekend