No matter how careful pedestrians are, their fate often rests in the hands of the motorists on the roadway. A simple act like crossing the street shouldn’t put a person’s life at risk, but a reckless or intoxicated driver can cause the ultimate tragedy.
Mother’s Day ended in tragedy for an elderly Pennsylvania couple as they were on their way to a local club in Erie. The couple, both 66 years old, was crossing West 26th St. near Poplar St. It is believed that they were planning on entering the Knights of Saint John Club. Instead, a car heading west hit the couple, causing serious injury.
It is unknown whether the couple was using a crosswalk when the accident occurred. Sadly, the woman died as she was being transported to UPMC Hamot Trauma Center. A nearby pedestrian heard the sound of the crash and rushed to try to help. The elderly man reportedly tried to get up, but the helpful pedestrian was able to get him back onto the ground to wait for the emergency medical responders. The injured man was also rushed to a nearby hospital where he underwent emergency surgery and is expected to survive his injuries.
Law enforcement officials who were at the scene conducted a field sobriety test on the driver. While police have not released any additional information about the driver involved in the accident, it is known that he was taken into custody at the scene.
Whether the driver behind the wheel of the car was drunk or just reckless, he may find himself facing criminal charges and civil actions. While no amount of money will bring back the deceased woman, the injured husband may choose to retain legal counsel to seek justice in civil court.
Source: WICU 12, “Police Investigate Deadly Car Pedestrian Accident,” Lisa Adams, May 12, 2014